Political parties, judiciary must reform themselves to protect Africa’s democracy – Asiedu Nketia

Johnson Asiedu Nketia, the National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has advocated for comprehensive reforms within African political parties and the judiciary to safeguard democracy. Nketia argued that political parties must transcend their role as mere electoral machines and become permanent democratic institutions, while the judiciary must uphold its independence and provide impartial, accessible justice.

Nketia emphasized during the 2026 Goodluck Jonathan Foundation Democracy Dialogue in Bauchi, Nigeria, that political parties cannot save democracy merely by existing if they function only as electoral machines or tools for individual ambition. He stressed that courts cannot safeguard democracy if they are inaccessible, slow, inconsistent, or perceived to be under political influence. Both institutions can only defend democracy when they are credible, accountable, competent, and trusted.

The NDC leader highlighted that democracy extends beyond elections, encompassing the lawful exercise of power, respect for constitutional limits, legitimacy of opposition parties, and accountability of governments between elections. Elections, Nketia noted, determine who governs but do not guarantee lawful governance or respect for constitutional boundaries.

Citing Ghana's Fourth Republic as a case in point, Nketia highlighted the country's nine consecutive general elections since 1992, with power peacefully transferred multiple times. He underscored the 2008 and 2016 elections where close margins and subsequent power handovers were handled peacefully, avoiding national crises. However, he cautioned against complacency, citing the 2020 election which saw election-related violence and a Parliament dominated by two major parties.

Nketia urged political parties to reform their internal structures, moving away from viewing themselves as the private property of founders, financiers, or temporary leaders. He emphasized the need for parties to conduct credible internal elections, tolerate legitimate opposition within their ranks, and increase the inclusion of diverse groups like women, young people, and persons with disabilities.

Additionally, Nketia warned that the rising cost of political participation could undermine internal party democracy, potentially favoring the wealthiest candidates over the most capable leaders.