Governance expert Dr. Frederick Oduro has issued a strong warning. He stated that state institutions must not be used to intimidate or punish citizens for their opinions. Dr. Oduro stressed that Ghana must uphold the rule of law. Constitutional rights must be respected by everyone, regardless of political beliefs.
Dr. Oduro voiced his concerns on Joy FM’s Top Story. He noted a worrying increase in the politicisation of governance in Ghana. Partisan interests are increasingly shaping how public institutions operate. This creates a perception that justice and protection depend on political connections. He specifically referenced Article 21(1)(a) of the 1992 Constitution. This article guarantees the fundamental right to freedom of expression.
The expert explained that this trend is not new. It has occurred under both the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP). Opposition parties often accuse the ruling government of using state machinery against them. Dr. Oduro believes Ghana needs stronger institutions. These bodies must operate independently from political influence to serve all citizens fairly. He called for a system that is just and equitable for everyone.
Dr. Oduro acknowledged that freedom of speech comes with responsibility. He said citizens must exercise restraint and maintain decorum in public discussions. However, he expressed worry about the divisive language used by some political activists. Such statements can escalate tensions and threaten the nation's peace. He stressed that state apparatus should protect all citizens. They should not become tools against people perceived as holding different views.
This situation has wider implications for Ghana's economic and political stability. When state institutions are seen as partisan, it erodes public trust. This can deter investment and hinder fair economic competition. Businesses and individuals may fear unfair scrutiny. This negatively impacts overall economic growth and foreign direct investment. A stable and predictable legal framework is crucial for economic prosperity.
The call for institutional independence is critical. It impacts the perceived fairness of the justice system. This can affect credit ratings and the cost of borrowing for the government. Investors watch for signs of good governance. They assess the risk of doing business in a country. Strong, independent institutions signal a stable environment. Weak or politicised ones create uncertainty and increase risk premiums.
Dr. Oduro’s remarks highlight a persistent challenge in Ghanaian governance. The need for robust, independent institutions remains paramount. Establishing such systems will foster greater accountability. It will also build public confidence. This is vital for Ghana’s continued development and economic advancement. Future policies should focus on strengthening these pillars of democracy and fairness.