Ghana’s new president, John Mahama, emphasized anti-corruption efforts by declaring a former minister ‘wanted’. However, both major political parties have historically been implicated in corruption, complicating the narrative. Grassroots mobilization, particularly from impoverished communities, remains critical to combat systemic graft effectively. The legacy of pre-colonial resistance and ongoing societal disparities shapes the current anti-corruption landscape.
The new administration of John Mahama in Ghana made a significant move against corruption by labeling a former finance minister a “wanted fugitive”. This announcement served to underscore the government’s commitment to fighting corruption, attributing guilt to the prior administration, the New Patriotic Party. However, the reality of corruption in Ghana is far more intricate, as both major political parties have been implicated in scandals over the years.
Ghanaians have historically raised their voices against corruption and exploitation. This pushback dates back to before the British colonization of the territory, when local communities challenged the authority of oppressive figures. My research into Ghana’s extensive history indicates that the success of anti-corruption efforts requires mobilization from grassroots levels, as the marginalized citizens experience the ramifications of corruption more severely than their affluent counterparts.
The Asante Empire, a prominent pre-colonial society, faced internal unrest due to the misconduct of its monarchs. Notably, monarch Kofi Kakari was dethroned in 1874 for violating cultural norms, and his successor faced similar backlash. Similarly, the Fante coastal region developed civic systems, wherein local defense groups known as “asafo” could hold chiefs accountable, demonstrating collective community action against misrule.
The legacy of “asafo” reverberated through Ghana’s history, particularly during backlashes against corruption in the late 20th century. Protests in the late 1970s echoed the themes of anti-corruption, with demonstrators invoking traditional songs to illustrate their complaints against systemic corruption rooted in class disparity.
As democratic governance emerged, critiques of the political landscape persisted. While both major parties superficially oppose corruption, critics argue they merely alternate control to benefit private interests. The limited effectiveness of official anti-corruption strategies often overlooks the political dynamics and social contexts that shape these issues, leading to skepticism about the government’s authenticity in its efforts.
Data from the Afrobarometer, a leading research network, reveals that 67% of impoverished respondents believe corruption worsened, highlighting the differentiated impact based on socioeconomic status. The historical focus on exposing high-profile corruption often neglects the daily experiences of ordinary citizens who endure the burdens of systemic graft.
Despite the existence of various laws and institutions aimed at combating corruption, progress remains hindered by bureaucratic challenges and inadequate commitment. Mahama’s administration, however, has made strides, such as the public declaration of assets by high-ranking officials, including Mahama himself. Ultimately, sustained change in Ghana will necessitate both political and grassroots mobilization to effectively address and combat corruption.
Corruption in Ghana presents a complex landscape influenced by historical patterns and socio-economic disparities. Despite progress toward accountability, effective anti-corruption efforts must incorporate grassroots initiatives alongside political will. Establishing mechanisms for citizen participation, especially among the impoverished, is crucial for addressing the root causes of corruption and fostering a culture of accountability within governance.
Original Source: theconversation.com
