Coalition for a Third Force can be effective in Ghanaian politics only when Member Parties stick together, Says Political Analyst

A prominent political analyst has underscored the importance of unity among member parties in a coalition for a third political force to have a meaningful impact on Ghanaian politics. Speaking on Adom FM’s evening news on Sunday, Dr. Kwamena Mensah, a political lecturer at the University of Cape Coast, emphasized that while the idea of a third force has gained traction, its effectiveness hinges on the cohesion and commitment of its constituent parties.

With the 2024 general elections on the horizon, there has been growing speculation about the emergence of a viable third political force in Ghana to challenge the dominance of the two major parties, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP). Several smaller parties and independent candidates have expressed interest in forming a coalition to present an alternative to the traditional political landscape.

Dr. Kwamena highlighted that while the concept of a third force may appeal to disillusioned voters seeking change, its success relies heavily on the ability of member parties to set aside individual ambitions and agendas in favor of a shared vision. “Unity is the linchpin of any successful coalition,” he stated. “Without it, the third force risks fracturing under internal divisions and becoming inconsequential in the political arena.”

The analyst acknowledged the challenges inherent in forming and maintaining a cohesive coalition, including ideological differences, leadership disputes, and varying levels of organizational capacity among member parties. However, he also emphasized the opportunities presented by a united front, such as leveraging collective resources, reaching a broader base of voters, and offering a fresh alternative to traditional politics.

Dr. Kwamena drew parallels to past attempts at forming third political forces in Ghanaian history, citing instances where internal discord and power struggles undermined their effectiveness. He urged current stakeholders to learn from these lessons and prioritize unity and cooperation to ensure the sustainability and relevance of any new coalition.

In addition, Dr. Kwamena called on leaders and members of prospective third force parties to prioritize the greater good over individual interests and work towards a common goal of transforming Ghana’s political landscape. “The potential for a viable third force exists, but it requires commitment, compromise, and collaboration,” he asserted. “Only through unity can the aspirations of millions of Ghanaians for genuine change be realized.”

As Ghana prepares for the upcoming elections, the discourse surrounding the role of a third force in shaping the country’s political future is expected to intensify. The insights provided by analysts like Dr. Kwamena Mensah serve as a timely reminder of the importance of unity and solidarity in driving meaningful change in Ghanaian politics.

AMN | Anochie’s Report | Accra.