Concerns about political polarisation are growing in Ghana, with analysts warning that rising mistrust between party supporters could weaken social cohesion and democratic culture.
President John Dramani Mahama used his New Year address to urge an end to divisive politics, calling on citizens and political actors to place nation-building above partisanship.
“There is no NPP Ghana. There is no CPP Ghana or NDC Ghana. There is only one Ghana,” he said.
President Mahama warned that political divisions distract from urgent national challenges such as unemployment, infrastructure deficits, and healthcare access, and called for what he described as “the patriotism of nation-building.”
“Let us reject the politics of division and embrace the patriotism of nation-building. Let us disagree without being disagreeable. Let us compete in the marketplace of ideas without treating our opponents as enemies.”
Ghana has long been recognised for peaceful political transitions, but recent electoral cycles have seen heightened polarisation. President Mahama said democracy works best when political competition does not undermine national unity.
