A recent survey conducted by Afrobarometer, a pan-African research network, has shed light on Ghanaians’ perceptions of democracy and governance in the country.
The survey, which was presented during a regional dissemination of Ghana Afro barometer round 10 survey findings in Kumasi on April 23, 2025, reveals that while a majority of Ghanaians support democracy and reject authoritarian alternatives, there are concerns about the country’s democratic progress.
According to the survey presented by Mavis Zupork Dome,Senior Research Analyst /National Investigator Afro barometer -Ghana survey,CDC Ghana, a large majority of Ghanaians support democracy and reject authoritarian alternatives.
However, the survey also found that support for military rule has been increasing steadily since 2012, reaching 33% in 2024. This is a worrying trend, as it suggests that some Ghanaians may be losing faith in the democratic system.
The survey also explored Ghanaians’ views on the role of the military in politics.
The findings indicate that fewer than half (47%) of Ghanaians believe that the Ghana Armed Forces should never intervene in the country’s political processes. This represents an 8 percentage point decrease compared to 2022 (55%). The survey’s findings on this issue are concerning, as they suggest that some Ghanaians may be open to the idea of military intervention in politics.
Despite these concerns, the survey found that solid majorities of Ghanaians endorse the rule of law. The findings indicate that most Ghanaians believe that the president must obey the courts and submit to parliamentary oversight. This suggests that Ghanaians value the principles of democracy and are committed to upholding the rule of law.
However, the survey also found that satisfaction with Ghana’s democracy has declined significantly since 2017. The findings indicate that satisfaction with democracy has dropped by 29 percentage points since 2017.
Additionally, the survey found that assessments of Ghana as “a full democracy” or “a democracy with minor problems” have declined by 20 percentage points since 2017.
The survey also explored Ghanaians’ perceptions of governance in the country. The findings indicate that many Ghanaians believe that officials who commit crimes often go unpunished, judges and magistrates prioritize political influence over the law, and people are treated unequally under the law. These perceptions are concerning, as they suggest that Ghanaians may be losing trust in the country’s institutions.
The Afrobarometer survey provides valuable insights into Ghanaians’ views on democracy and governance. While the survey’s findings are concerning, they also highlight the need for policymakers and civil society organizations to address the challenges facing Ghana’s democracy. By working together, Ghanaians can strengthen their democratic institutions and promote good governance in the country.
Source:Ayisah Foster|| Punch newspaper
