What is it about?
This article discusses how presidents in emerging democracies such as Ghana can use calculated-manipulation of well intended constitutional powers to foment tyranny, and erode democratic ethos in the absence of robust institutional independence.
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Why is it important?
The article is important as it highlights decisions relating to appointments and dismissals Akufo-Addo, involving Ghana's Judiciary, the Electoral Commission, and the office of the Auditor-General. The analytical reflection on these cases is against the backdrop of democratic principles, good governance, and established qualities of democratic temperament.
Perspectives
In this article, we draw from Ghana's recent democratic experience to show how political executives exploit their constitutional powers of appointing officials to circumvent checks and balances intended to limit government power and consequently undermine the process of democratic consolidation. In particular, it examines the concerning trend of democratic decline in Ghana under the leadership of President Nana Akufo-Addo by analysing how he utilised his constitutional authority, especially the power of appointment and dismissal, to undermine the independence of key institutions such as the Judiciary, the Electoral Commission, and the Auditor-General's office, ultimately contributing to democratic backsliding in Ghana.
Dr Kafui Tsekpo
African Leadership Centre
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Blighting the ‘Bright Star’ through Constitutional Tyranny: Nana Akufo-Addo and Democratic Backsliding in Ghana, Journal of African Politics, December 2024, The University of Dodoma,
DOI: 10.58548/2024jap42.0119.
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