Ghana should join BRICS as partner, not member – NPP Bono East Regional Secretary

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) Bono East Regional Secretary, David Boakye, has advocated for Ghana to pursue a partnership with BRICS instead of seeking full membership in the bloc of emerging economies. This stance emerged after Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa announced the government's decision to formally apply for Ghana to join BRICS.

The move aims to diversify Ghana's international partnerships, broaden economic opportunities, and enhance cooperation with countries in the Global South. Boakye, however, cautioned the government to thoroughly evaluate the implications of full membership before making a decision. He suggested that Ghana should enter the bloc as a partner rather than a member.

Boakye cited other African countries like Nigeria, Uganda, Egypt, Ethiopia, and South Africa as examples of African nations' participation in BRICS. He questioned whether Ghana would meet all the membership requirements due to varying economic circumstances among countries aspiring to join. He admitted that Ghana's economy might not be comparable to that of a member like Nigeria and emphasized that the government must consider the membership criteria.

Boakye likened the membership process to that of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), highlighting that admission into such groups depends on meeting set requirements and obtaining approval from current members. He expected the government to explain its decision and clarify its approach towards BRICS.