IN a defining moment for Ghana’s democracy, President-elect John Dramani Mahama’s win in the 2024 presidential election marks a pivotal step in the country’s political journey. The peaceful nature of the election and the smooth transition of power, notably demonstrated by Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia’s graceful concession, reflect the strength and maturity of Ghana’s democratic process.
A victory for democratic resilience
As a Nigerian journalist living in Ghana for over 15 years, I have witnessed firsthand the governing styles of both major political parties— the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC). The recent election saw a robust turnout, with the Ghanaian people once again showing their unwavering commitment to democracy. This victory is not only a testament to the NDC’s appeal but a celebration of the resilience of Ghana’s democracy.
Citizen Check and CHRAJ’s crucial role in governance
As President-elect Mahama steps into his new role, working closely with institutions like Citizen Check and the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) is essential for maintaining transparency, accountability, and the protection of citizens’ rights.
- Citizen Check: enhancing government efficiency: Citizen Check, a government-initiated platform, simplifies citizens’ interactions with the state by centralising access to services such as permits, taxes, and public records. With its secure, streamlined processes, it improves both efficiency and user experience, particularly benefiting non-citizens who often face difficulties navigating governmental procedures. This platform provides the foundation for better governance, promoting a seamless relationship between the government and the people.
- CHRAJ: safeguarding human rights and good governance: The Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) plays a pivotal role in promoting human rights, ensuring justice, and combating corruption. Its mandate includes investigating human rights violations and addressing complaints of administrative injustice. By empowering citizens to hold the government accountable, CHRAJ ensures that Ghana remains a beacon of fairness and transparency in Africa.
Strategic collaboration for a better Ghana
To maximise the potential of Citizen Check and CHRAJ, Mahama’s administration should consider several key strategies:
- Job opportunities: Collaborating with Citizen Check to create a centralized job portal can connect job seekers with employers, ensuring equal employment access for all Ghanaians.
- Security and human rights: Partnering with CHRAJ to implement policies that enhance public safety and human rights will safeguard the well-being of every citizen.
- Improved living standards: Citizen Check can streamline access to essential social services such as healthcare and education, elevating Ghanaians’ overall quality of life.
Commitment to transparency and accountability
Transparency remains a cornerstone of democratic governance. Mahama’s government should prioritise regular public reports on government spending and projects. Citizen Check can facilitate real-time updates on initiatives, fostering public participation and ensuring the government remains accountable to its citizens.
A democratic victory for all Ghanaians
President-Elect John Dramani Mahama’s victory signals a brighter future for Ghana’s democracy. By leveraging the capabilities of Citizen Check and CHRAJ, Mahama can usher in a government that prioritises transparency, accountability, and the protection of human rights for every citizen. With such a strong foundation, Ghana’s democracy will continue to thrive, benefiting all Ghanaians and standing as a beacon for the rest of Africa.
