Videos: Ghana’s democracy conflict ridden – Bankahemaa

The queen mother of Banka in the Asante -Akyim South District of the Ashanti Region, Nana Animah Framoh Basahyia I, has described Ghana’s democracy as conflict ridden, divisive and lacks dividends for all and has called for a renewed commitment to true democracy and good governance.

She highlighted the pervasive issues of corruption and misappropriation of public funds, urging leaders to prioritize the welfare of all citizens over personal interests while emphasising the urgent need for genuine democratic principles in Ghana.

In address her during the celebration of Banka Bakae-Odwira festival held on Friday, February 21, the Bankahemaa asserted that for democracy to flourish and for citizens to experience true happiness, it is imperative to eliminate corruption and the misappropriation of public funds.

The queen mother, who is also a lecturer at the Knustford University College (KUC), criticized those in high government positions who prioritize their families’ interests over the welfare of the broader population, leading to widespread suffering among the people.

She called for innovative thinking and collaborative efforts to address the challenges facing democracy.

Reflecting on a significant moment during the inauguration of President John Dramani Mahama on January 7, she noted how many Ghanaians warmly welcomed the President of Burkina Faso, Ibrahim Traore, suggesting that this enthusiasm indicates a desire among some citizens for a different form of governance.

She pointed out that both Burkina Faso and Ghana experience similar levels of poverty, raising questions about the effectiveness of the current democratic framework.

The queen mother, who is known in private life as Nana Amma Ampofoaa Twumasi, and holds a Master of a Philosophy in Political Science, emphasized that politicians must actively work to enhance the effectiveness of democracy if it is genuinely desired by the populace.

Despite decades of practicing Western-style democracy, she argued that Ghana has not made substantial progress as a nation. She characterized democracy as inherently conflict-ridden, with divisions evident from local assemblies, Council of State elections, presidential elections and to the national parliament.

She urged a reevaluation of the political system, advocating for a model that truly benefits the people. Drawing comparisons with other countries, she noted that while China has developed its own form of democracy and the United States has practiced it for over 250 years, issues can still arise when governance fails to meet citizens’ needs.

The traditional ruler advocated for good governance that effectively mobilizes national resources—such as gold, diamonds, and forests—for the collective benefit of all citizens.

Nana Animah Framoh Basahyia I, told the media that her message was a clarion call for introspection and action—urging both leaders and citizens to work together toward a more equitable and effective democratic system that honors the sacrifices of past generations while addressing present challenges.

On the other side, she expressed concern that the principles of democracy, while fostering individual rights and freedoms, have inadvertently undermined traditional family structures.

She noted that the empowerment of women, as evidenced by increasing numbers of female graduates obtaining their first and second degrees, has led to shifts in marital relationships.

“As women assert their rights with the phrase ‘I know my rights,’ we are witnessing a transformation that challenges the conventional roles within families,” she stated.

Touching on the festival, she said it is in remembrance of their ancestors and to show gratitude for giving them identity, heritage and culture.

She invoked an Akan proverb about remembrance, highlighting the importance of honoring ancestors who fought valiantly to secure the land for future generations. She underscored that celebrating these forebears annually and seeking their guidance is a vital way to acknowledge their contributions and maintain cultural heritage.

Nana Animah Framoh Basahyia I was the wife of the late Professor Patrick Adubofour Twumasi, who was a former Ghana High Commissioner to Zimbabwe, former presidential advisor to the late President Jerry John Rawlings and also a former Dean of Social Studies at the University of Ghana.

On her part the Krontihene of Banka, Nana Ohu- Atrene Acheampong, delivered a thought-provoking address on the implications of democracy for marriage and family institutions in Ghana. Her remarks have sparked significant conversation about the evolving dynamics within Ghanaian society.

She highlighted a troubling trend, which is the rising of divorce rates attributed to the difficulties couples face in navigating their relationships amidst changing societal expectations.

Nana Ohu- Atrene Acheampong also emphasized the crucial role of elders in mediating disputes within families, lamenting their absence in modern nuclear households. “Without the guidance of elders, couples often find themselves ill-equipped to resolve conflicts, leading to misunderstandings and ultimately higher divorce rates,” she explained.

The Banka Bekae- Odwira festival is held annually in February, and it involves cleansing and rites being performed on all the twelve water bodies in Banka.