Former President John Dramani Mahama has raised alarm about what he perceives as the deliberate undermining of independent institutions in Ghana by the Akufo-Addo administration.
He specifically pointed to the Electoral Commission (EC) and the Judiciary during his address at the Good Governance Forum on October 31.
Mahama expressed grave concern about the erosion of institutional integrity and its implications for the country’s democracy. He warned that the ongoing weakening of these vital institutions presents a significant threat to good governance and accountability.
Highlighting the importance of an independent judiciary and a credible electoral body, Mahama argued that these components are essential for guaranteeing fair elections and justice for all citizens.
If elected in the upcoming elections, Mahama pledged to prioritize the restoration of good governance, emphasizing his commitment to working alongside civil society and the media to strengthen transparency and accountability within government institutions.
In his concluding remarks, he called upon Ghanaians to unite in the pursuit of a stronger democratic framework, insisting that the country deserves leadership that upholds the principles of good governance.
“For almost eight years, the government has deliberately and systematically worked to weaken and undermine the independence of the Judiciary, the electoral commission, and the Audit Service for their own parochial purposes.”
“Our human rights record including press freedom has suffered just as the fight against corruption has. Journalists have been hounded and cowered into silence and self-censorship.”
“But I can assure you that there’s hope. The NDC, under my leadership, is ready and willing to work with Ghanaians, our key stakeholders, civil society, our traditional leaders, and our development partners to restore good governance to our beloved country,” he stated.