In a thoughtful discussion on the state of Ghana’s democracy, Professor Mike Oquaye has spoken candidly about the persistent challenges confronting political integrity, particularly within the New Patriotic Party (NPP). His remarks touched on long-standing concerns such as vote buying and the increasingly hostile tone of political discourse, issues he believes continue to undermine public trust and internal party cohesion.
Professor Oquaye noted that while peace pacts signed by political candidates often attract public attention, they should not be mistaken for legally binding contracts. Instead, he described them as moral commitments—tests of decency and good faith that reveal a candidate’s respect for fair play and democratic values. According to him, such pacts matter not because of legal enforcement, but because they reflect the ethical standards leaders are willing to uphold.
Turning to the issue of intra-party democracy, the Professor emphasized the need for stronger internal structures to manage disputes before they escalate. He suggested the creation of a functional advisory committee to address logistical and procedural challenges, including contentious matters like proxy voting. In his view, many conflicts arise not from ideology but from poor systems and unresolved technical disagreements.
Professor Oquaye also underscored the crucial role of the Council of Elders, describing it as the quiet backbone of party stability. He stressed that effective leadership often happens behind the scenes, where experienced voices mediate tensions, calm tempers, and resolve conflicts away from public confrontation. When empowered and respected, he argued, such bodies can preserve order and unity even in turbulent times.
While acknowledging that Ghana’s political landscape still has significant room for improvement, Professor Oquaye remained cautiously optimistic. He maintained that lasting progress will require both structural reforms and personal accountability from political actors. In his assessment, democracy thrives not only on laws and institutions, but also on the character and discipline of those who operate within them.
His reflections serve as a reminder that political maturity is a continuous journey—one that demands honesty, restraint, and a collective commitment to the values that hold the democratic house together.
