The JoyNews’ “Democracy Is Not For Sale” forum held at the GNAT Hall in Tamale brought together key stakeholders to deliberate on the growing influence of money in Ghanaian politics.
The event, which attracted members from various political parties, persons living with disabilities, opinion leaders, and traditional authorities, provided a platform for open discussions on the escalating cost of political participation, vote buying, and campaign financing.
Speaking as a panelist, the Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences at the University for Development Studies (UDS), Professor Eliasu Alhassan, warned that Ghana’s democracy was increasingly being reduced to a commodity.
He noted that political power was gradually being shaped by financial strength rather than the genuine will of the people, a situation he described as dangerous for democratic growth and sustainability.
According to him, the monetisation of politics risks sidelining competent but less financially endowed individuals, thereby weakening the country’s democratic structures.
Also contributing to the discussion, the Northern Regional Operational Commander, Richard Lantei Odartey, raised concerns over what he described as the rising tide of political activism undermining the rule of law.
He cautioned that the trend was gradually eroding respect for legal processes and institutions, posing a serious threat to justice and accountability in the country.
Mr. Odartey further indicated that some individuals ventured into politics primarily to shield their business interests, especially where such enterprises were linked to criminal activities.
He stressed that such motivations not only compromised governance but also deepened corruption within the political system.
The forum formed part of JoyNews’ broader initiative aimed at promoting transparency, accountability, and safeguarding Ghana’s democratic principles against the corrosive influence of money.
