Citizens’ apathy threatens Ghana’s democracy, Speakers

Growing public disillusionment and apathy pose a significant threat to Ghana's democratic consolidation, governance and anti-corruption advocates cautioned. They warned that unless democracy delivers tangible economic opportunities, quality public services, and stronger accountability, citizens' commitment to democratic rule could weaken.

Speakers at a forum titled “Citizens and Democratic Consolidation in Ghana: Rights, Obligations and Duties” highlighted that democracy in Ghana faces a threat not from military coups or institutional collapse, but from increasing citizen frustration, disengagement, and a loss of faith in democracy's ability to improve daily life. Rising youth unemployment, persistent corruption, economic hardship, and declining trust in public institutions were identified as key drivers fueling this apathy and jeopardizing the long-term sustainability of the country's democracy.

Lawyer and governance expert Kwaku Antwi-Boasiako argued that democracy's true value is measured by its impact on citizens' lives, not solely by elections and constitutions. He stated that citizens judge democratic governance based on outcomes like employment, affordable food, quality education, accessible healthcare, and fair treatment by public institutions. "When democracy comes after the polls, citizens begin to question its value," he observed, emphasizing that citizens experience the results of governance, and a failure to meet expectations erodes public confidence.

Antwi-Boasiako identified youth unemployment as one of the most critical threats to Ghana's democratic future, urging it be treated as a national emergency. He cited labor market data showing high unemployment rates among young people, warning that economic frustration is compelling many to seek opportunities abroad, often under dangerous conditions. He called for increased investment in skills development, entrepreneurship, and agribusiness to address this crisis and restore faith in Ghana's democratic promise.

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When democracy comes after the polls, citizens begin to question its value.