Ghana’s democracy is often praised as one of the most stable in Africa, but beneath this stability lies a deep-rooted problem: the ‘winner takes all’ system of governance.
Every four years, political power shifts from one party to another, but instead of continuity in national development, what we witness is a complete reset—appointments, policies, and even long-term projects are often abandoned simply because a new government is in charge. This cycle of political exclusion and partisanship is holding Ghana back.
What Does ‘Winner Takes All’ Mean?
In Ghanaian politics, ‘winner takes all’ means that the party in power enjoys total control over state resources, appointments, and policy direction. The ruling party fills government positions with its loyalists, while the opposition is left with no role in governance. This creates a system where national leadership is seen as a prize to be won, rather than a responsibility to be shared.
The Consequences of This System
1. Political Exclusion and Marginalisation
Once a party loses power, its supporters and members are effectively locked out of decision-making. Even highly qualified professionals are removed from government positions simply because they are associated with the previous administration. This discourages a culture of national service and prioritises party loyalty over competence.
2. Abandonment of Projects and Policies
One of the most damaging effects of the ‘winner takes all’ system is the discontinuation of projects started by previous governments. New administrations often refuse to complete initiatives launched by their predecessors, even if they would benefit the country. This has led to wasted resources, unfinished infrastructure, and stagnation in development.
3. Corruption and Political Patronage
Because government positions are treated as rewards for party loyalty, many appointees focus more on enriching themselves and their allies than serving the nation. Public contracts and appointments are often handed out based on party affiliation rather than merit, leading to inefficiency and corruption.
4. Intense Political Polarisation
The fight for power becomes a do-or-die affair because losing an election means losing everything. This creates a highly polarised political environment, where parties view each other as enemies rather than partners in governance. Instead of bipartisan cooperation, every policy is opposed simply because it comes from the other side.
5. Weak State Institutions
In a functioning democracy, institutions should remain independent regardless of which party is in power. However, in Ghana, successive governments have politicised state institutions, making them serve the interests of the ruling party rather than the country. This erodes public trust and weakens governance.
How Can Ghana Fix This?
1. Inclusive Governance
Ghana must move towards a governance system that includes opposition voices in decision-making. Key national appointments should be based on competence, not party affiliation. A government of national unity—where talented individuals from different backgrounds contribute to national development—could be an ideal solution.
2. Strengthening State Institutions
Independent institutions should be protected from political interference. The Electoral Commission, Judiciary, and other public agencies must serve the nation, not the ruling party. Security of tenure for key officials will prevent new governments from arbitrarily removing competent individuals.
3. National Development Plans
Ghana needs a binding, long-term national development plan that all parties must follow, regardless of who is in power. This would prevent the unnecessary abandonment of projects and ensure continuity in governance.
4. Political and Electoral Reforms
Electoral laws should be reviewed to promote a more collaborative form of governance. A proportional representation system, where opposition parties have a role in policy-making, could help reduce the desperation to win at all costs.
The ‘winner takes all’ system is one of the biggest threats to Ghana’s democratic progress. It fuels political division, weakens institutions, and slows down development. If Ghana is to move forward, politics must be redefined—not as a battle for power, but as a collective effort to build the nation. It is time for a new approach—one where governance is about service, not spoils.
