Michael Donyina Mensah, Executive Director of CenPOA, warns that voting based on tribal and religious affiliations threatens Ghana’s democracy and development. He advocates for prioritizing candidates’ competence and integrity over tribal loyalty to ensure effective governance. Mensah calls for an end to tribal politics to enhance accountability and national progress.
Michael Donyina Mensah, the Executive Director of the Centre for Public Opinion and Awareness (CenPOA), has expressed grave concern over the implications of voting based on tribal and religious affiliations in Ghana. He asserts that such practices undermine the democratic framework of the nation and obstruct essential development. Mensah emphasized that research indicates that electoral campaigning aligned with tribal and religious sentiments fails to enable necessary advancements in living conditions for the populace. Furthermore, this trend hampers the selection of skilled, accountable leaders, ultimately stunting national progress. He implored voters to prioritize candidates’ policies, integrity, and ability to serve effectively, rather than their tribal or religious connections. Mensah’s comments additionally reflect on the constitutional framework designed to prevent the formation of political parties based on tribal or religious bases, critiquing the ongoing violations of these principles. He concluded by urging Ghanaians to choose leaders who can competently manage the country, thus securing a better future for all citizens.
The issue of tribal and religious voting patterns in Ghana has emerged as a significant challenge to the integrity of the nation’s democratic processes. Historically, ethnic and religious identities have influenced electoral behaviors, often at the expense of assessing candidates based on their qualifications and commitment to national service. The Centre for Public Opinion and Awareness aims to raise awareness regarding the detrimental effects of these affiliations on governance and development. There is a growing recognition that adhering to tribal and religious allegiance in elections compromises accountability and effective representation, instigating a dialogue on the need for reform in voting behaviors.
In summary, Michael Donyina Mensah of CenPOA cautions against the divisive practice of voting along tribal and religious lines in Ghana. Such practices threaten the democratic process and the potential for meaningful development. He advocates for a shift in voting behavior towards prioritizing candidates’ capabilities and integrity. By electing leaders based on merit rather than tribal or religious affiliations, Ghanaians can contribute to the nation’s progress and uphold constitutional values.
Original Source: www.ghanaweb.com
