The Divisional Chief of Apremdo, Nana Egya Kwamena XI, has welcomed the Supreme Court’s decision declaring the delegate system used by political parties to elect their presidential and parliamentary candidates unconstitutional, describing it as a major step towards deepening Ghana’s democracy.
In a landmark 5-2 majority decision, the Supreme Court ruled that the delegate system is inconsistent with democratic principles and directed political parties to replace it with a more democratic electoral framework within one year.
Speaking on Almighty FM’s Morning Light programme on Thursday, Nana Egya Kwamena XI said the ruling should mark the beginning of a shift away from transactional politics towards national development.
“The Supreme Court has taken a bold decision that will strengthen our democracy. Political participation should not be about a few delegates benefiting during elections while the majority of Ghanaians are left behind,” he said.
The traditional leader called on party delegates across the country to invest in acquiring employable skills instead of depending on politicians for financial inducements and other favours during election seasons.
“Delegates must now focus on learning skills that will make them economically independent rather than waiting for politicians to distribute money and gifts whenever elections approach,” he stated.
Nana Egya Kwamena XI also urged political leaders to channel their resources into creating sustainable employment opportunities rather than spending heavily on delegates to secure political power.
“Our political leaders must be intentional about creating jobs that benefit everyone. When citizens have decent livelihoods, the politics of vote-buying and handouts will gradually disappear,” he added.
He expressed hope that the court’s ruling would encourage political parties to adopt more inclusive internal electoral processes while promoting accountability, fairness and equal participation in Ghana’s democratic governance.
