Korle Klottey MP, Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, has criticised Ghana’s political culture, warning that the nation’s fixation on elections is stalling meaningful development.
Speaking on JoyNews’ Talk No Dey Cook Rice podcast, she argued that leaders must stop pandering to populism and instead make bold, forward-looking decisions that secure the future.
“It seems as though we’re constantly chasing elections, and populism is becoming central to everything. We’re not paying enough attention to what is right—not just for today, but for tomorrow, and for generations yet unborn,” she said.
Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings stressed that good governance must go beyond free and fair elections.
“What are you doing for the people? Are you delivering on time? Are you respecting citizens’ dignity? Are working conditions decent? Governance is about substance, not just ballots.”
She also called out double standards in accountability and law enforcement, questioning why ordinary citizens face swift punishment while politicians and public officials escape responsibility for larger failures.
“A trader can go to jail for damaging part of an overpass, but can we apply the same standard to politicians who misuse funds and leave roads undone? They walk free while citizens suffer.”
The MP lamented that young people feel excluded from policymaking, often treated as passive recipients of programmes rather than active participants.
“Too many young people feel ignored. Policies are designed for them without asking what they really want. That disconnect fuels apathy and weakens civic engagement.”
Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings warned that Ghana risks falling behind if leaders continue to lower standards for political convenience. She cited Rwanda, Malaysia, and Singapore as examples of countries that achieved progress through strict but effective governance.
“In Rwanda, there is zero tolerance for littering or selling in unauthorized spaces. In Singapore, even chewing gum is banned. These may seem tough, but that’s what it took to build discipline and progress. Are we prepared to do the same?”
She concluded that Ghana must embrace leadership that is ready to take tough but necessary decisions to raise accountability and restore trust.
“We can’t keep lowering the bar because of politics. At some point, we must draw the line and do what is right for the people of Ghana.”
source: myjoyonline
