Editorial: Advancing democracy with responsibility

The domestic political scene was recently on display as the New Patriotic Party (NPP) conducted its 2026 presidential primaries. Over 211,000 delegates across more than 330 polling centres participated in selecting the party’s flagbearer for the 2028 elections, culminating in a decisive victory for Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.

Beyond the numbers, however, the significance of this event lies in what it represents for domestic democracy and the future of political competition in the country.

Concerns over potential unrest were widespread in the lead-up to the primaries. History reminds us that highly contested internal elections can sometimes spark violence, threaten party cohesion and erode public confidence.

Yet the NPP managed a largely orderly and transparent process. The absence of major disruptions is a commendable achievement and a demonstration of the party’s organisational discipline, the commitment of delegates and adherence to its internal constitutional processes.

This is the kind of political maturity that strengthens public trust and sets a standard for other parties to emulate.

It is worth reflecting on the broader implications. In a democracy, political parties are more than vehicles for individual ambition; they are institutions that must contribute to national discourse, policy formulation and ultimately the public good.

Can the NPP, as the main opposition party, leverage this renewed mandate to function not only as a check on power but also a constructive force in advancing the country’s development agenda?

The primaries have shown the party is capable of managing internal contests responsibly,  now comes the test of channeling that discipline toward national progress.

Moreover, the expanded participation of delegates signals an encouraging trend toward inclusivity and representation within party politics.

By empowering a wider range of members in the selection of leadership, the NPP has demonstrated that democratic practices can be strengthened even within party structures, not just in general elections.

As the party consolidates behind its chosen candidate, the hope is that this spirit of accountability and responsible participation will continue.

Ghana’s democracy thrives not only when elections are conducted peacefully, but also when opposition parties engage in principled, idea-driven politics, challenging policies, proposing solutions and shaping public debate in ways that transcend personal or partisan interest.

The NPP primaries have shown a glimpse of this potential. The nation watches not only for the politics of today but also the standards they may set for tomorrow.

Can Ghanaian opposition politics evolve to match this level of internal democracy consistently? The answer could shape the trajectory of our democracy for years to come.

 

 

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