As Ghana’s political landscape braces for seismic shifts, critics are slamming the entrenched powers of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) for their reluctance to embrace a third force in the country’s politics. Despite mounting pressure and calls for change, both parties seem determined to maintain the status quo, leaving many Ghanaians disillusioned with the prospect of meaningful reform.
They will have 1000 reasons to avoid a third force, yet deliver little for Ghanaians,” remarked Dr. Abu Sakara, a polititian, capturing the sentiment of frustration among many citizens.
For years, the NPP and NDC have dominated Ghana’s political scene, alternating in power and monopolizing the political discourse. However, their grip on power has been increasingly challenged by a groundswell of discontent, fueled by concerns over corruption, economic stagnation, and a lack of progress on key social issues.
Despite this growing dissatisfaction, both parties have shown little willingness to engage with emerging political forces that seek to break the stranglehold of the traditional duopoly. Instead, they have resorted to familiar tactics of deflection and obfuscation, offering hollow promises and half-hearted gestures while preserving their own interests.
“The NPP and NDC will pay lip service to the idea of change, but when it comes down to it, they will do whatever it takes to maintain their grip on power,” observed Ama Asante, a community organizer in Accra.
Critics argue that the reluctance of the major parties to embrace a more pluralistic political landscape reflects a broader failure of leadership and vision. Despite their rhetoric of national unity and development, both the NPP and NDC have been accused of prioritizing partisan interests over the needs of the Ghanaian people.
They talk about unity and progress, but what they really mean is maintaining their own power and privilege,” said Dr. Abu Sakara. Meanwhile, ordinary Ghanaians continue to suffer.
The reluctance of the NPP and NDC to engage with alternative political forces has only served to deepen the sense of disillusionment and alienation among many citizens. With each passing day, the gap between the political elite and the grassroots widens, fueling resentment and anger among those who feel marginalized and ignored by the political establishment.
As calls for change grow louder, the NPP and NDC find themselves at a crossroads. Will they continue to cling to the status quo, or will they finally heed the voices of the people and embrace a more inclusive and democratic political system? The answer may well determine the future course of Ghanaian politics for years to come.
AMN | Asantewaa’s Report | Accra.