The elections are here again. The campaign is becoming heated. The promises are sparkling and the applause, resounding! Are they for real? How can we trust what they say? Well, since I belong to this party, let me just defend even the indefensible. A reflection on Ghana’s political struggle.
The political landscape in Ghana, as in many parts of the world, has long been plagued by the use of deception as a means to attain power. Ambitious politicians, driven by a thirst for authority and influence, have often resorted to making grandiose promises and carefully crafted narratives to sway the electorate, only to falter in delivering on those commitments once in office. This vicious cycle of deception has had profound psychological and social consequences, undermining the very fabric of democratic governance and eroding the trust between the citizenry and their elected leaders.
At the heart of this issue lies the inherent tension between the politician’s desire for power and the rightful expectations of the Ghanaian people. Driven by a relentless ambition, some politicians are willing to sacrifice their principles and the well-being of their constituents in pursuit of personal gain. They skillfully manipulate the emotions and aspirations of the electorate, crafting narratives that appeal to their deepest hopes and fears, while conveniently omitting the practical realities and challenges of governance.
The psychological toll on the politician who engages in such deceptive practices can be significant. Maintaining a web of lies and broken promises can lead to a profound sense of guilt, cognitive dissonance, and even a distorted perception of reality. As they become increasingly disconnected from the true needs and concerns of the people, these politicians may find themselves trapped in a self-serving echo chamber, unable to confront the consequences of their actions.
The citizens of Ghana, in turn, are the primary victims of this political deception. The disappointment, frustration, and sense of betrayal that follows the failure to deliver on campaign promises can have a devastating impact on their trust in the democratic process and their overall well-being. This erosion of trust can lead to a growing cynicism and disengagement from the political sphere, as citizens become increasingly disillusioned with the very system meant to serve them.
The psychological effects on the citizens can be far-reaching. Feelings of powerlessness, anger, and disillusionment can manifest in various ways, from increased political apathy to the rise of extremist or populist movements. This can further exacerbate social divisions and hinder the collective progress of the nation, as citizens become increasingly polarized and distrustful of their elected leaders.
To break this vicious cycle of deception, politicians in Ghana must seek to appeal to the conscience and moral compass of the citizens, rather than relying on empty promises and manipulative tactics. This requires a fundamental shift in the approach to political campaigning and governance, one that prioritizes honesty, transparency, and a genuine commitment to serving the common good.
Firstly, politicians should strive to build a platform that is grounded in realistic and achievable goals, based on a thorough understanding of the challenges facing their constituents. This involves engaging in meaningful dialogue with the people, listening to their concerns, and crafting policies that address their genuine needs, rather than simply pandering to their desires.
By embracing a more authentic and transparent approach, politicians can begin to rebuild the trust that has been eroded by past deceptions. This may involve openly acknowledging the limitations and complexities of governance, while demonstrating a genuine commitment to addressing them through collaborative efforts and incremental progress.
Moreover, politicians should be held accountable for their actions, both during the campaign and after assuming office. This can be achieved through the establishment of robust monitoring and evaluation mechanisms, as well as the implementation of effective checks and balances within the political system. By fostering a culture of accountability, citizens can hold their leaders responsible for their promises and actions, thus incentivizing honesty and ethical behavior.
In parallel, the Ghanaian government should invest in comprehensive civic education programs that empower citizens to make informed and discerning decisions at the ballot box. These programs should focus on teaching critical thinking skills, fostering a deeper understanding of the democratic process, and encouraging active engagement in the political sphere.
By equipping the citizenry with the necessary knowledge and tools to navigate the political landscape, the government can help mitigate the susceptibility of the people to deceptive tactics and empower them to make choices that align with their values and the long-term interests of the nation.
Furthermore, the media, civil society organizations, and other watchdog institutions must play a vital role in holding politicians accountable and exposing any attempts at deception. By providing independent and impartial coverage of political events and campaigns, these entities can help to shine a light on the truth and counter the spread of misinformation and propaganda.
Ultimately, the journey towards restoring trust and integrity in Ghana’s political system will not be an easy one. It will require a concerted effort from all stakeholders ā politicians, citizens, and institutions ā to break free from the cycle of deception and work towards a more transparent and accountable system of governance.
By appealing to the conscience of the Ghanaian people and demonstrating a genuine commitment to serving their best interests, politicians can begin to rebuild the trust that has been eroded over time. This, in turn, can foster a more vibrant and inclusive democracy, where the voices of the citizens are heard and their aspirations are reflected in the policies and decisions that shape the future of the nation.
The psychological and social implications of political deception are far-reaching and profound. It is incumbent upon Ghana’s leaders and its people to confront this challenge head-on, and to work towards a political landscape that is built on honesty, transparency, and a deep respect for the democratic ideals that have long been the foundation of the nation’s identity.
By Jones Kwesi Tagbor – Mental Health Advocate
