🇬🇭GhanaWest Africa
Kwesi Pratt Jr. warns high cost of political participation excludes capable citizens from leadership
via GhanaWeb2 min read
Kwesi Pratt Jr., Managing Editor of the Insight Newspaper, has criticized Ghana's political framework, stating that the high financial demands of contesting elections, especially for the presidency, exclude many qualified individuals. Speaking on Pan African TV on April 18, 2026, Pratt highlighted that becoming president in Ghana could require mobilizing a minimum of $100 million, effectively sidelining most of the population. He cautioned that this system risks undermining national sovereignty, as candidates reliant on significant financial backing might become susceptible to external influence, thereby weakening the state's focus on national needs. Pratt also addressed discussions about a potential third term for John Dramani Mahama, questioning the democratic implications of concentrating leadership in one individual in a country of 35 million people. He emphasized the importance of mentoring successors and building systems that outlast individuals, rather than relying on a single figure. His remarks contribute to the ongoing debate about the credibility and inclusiveness of electoral systems across Africa, referencing recent polls in Benin.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by GhanaWeb.
Philip Longdon, a member of the Movement for Change Communications Team, has called on the Ghanaian government to use the ongoing Middle East tensions as an opportunity to bolster the nation's economic resilience. Speaking on Pan African TV, Longdon criticized what he views as a pattern of reactive policymaking by successive governments in response to global shocks. While he welcomed the recent reduction in fuel prices, noting its positive impact on key sectors, he expressed concern over the lack of attention to aviation fuel, citing rising costs in Nigeria as a cautionary example. Longdon emphasized the need for innovative, long-term strategies beyond short-term relief measures, stating that crises offer an opportunity to "think outside the box." He also voiced disappointment over insufficient investment in agriculture, particularly in large-scale poultry production, suggesting a more comprehensive approach to industrialize the sector. He believes that such reforms are crucial for reducing Ghana's vulnerability to external shocks and fostering sustainable economic growth.
Kwesi Pratt Jnr, Managing Editor of the Insight Newspaper, called for a redefinition of politics in Africa, emphasizing governance systems that prioritize citizen welfare. Speaking on Pan African TV on April 18, 2026, Pratt stated that politics should focus on the production and distribution of resources to satisfy people's needs and aspirations. He argued that political systems must concentrate on how resources are generated, managed, and utilized to address societal challenges, and that elections should lead to tangible outcomes that improve lives. Pratt made these comments during a discussion on the outcome of the Benin elections, where President Romuald Wadagni won with a 94% vote margin. He also cited Félix Houphouët-Boigny, the first president of Côte d'Ivoire, noting concerns about his political ties to France, including serving as a member of the French Parliament while leading his country, which Pratt described as problematic for sovereignty and independence.
The Commercial Division of the Accra High Court has ordered Zonda Tec Ghana Limited to compensate customer Tony Afoakwa with GH¢250,000. This ruling comes after a brand-new Forland 12T Light Truck 6.7 purchased from the company experienced engine failure within three months. Presiding Judge, Justice Francis Obiri JA, delivered the judgment on April 10, 2025, finding that Zonda Tec breached its six-month warranty. Justice Obiri stated that the truck failed to meet its intended purpose and standard, with latent defects undetectable by inspection. The court dismissed the company's defense regarding modifications or overloading, citing a lack of evidence. Zonda Tec Ghana is also mandated to repair and replace the faulty engine parts within three months, and the truck's warranty will be extended to three years post-repairs. The judgment underscored consumer protection under Ghana's sale of goods laws, emphasizing that a new truck's engine should not fail so quickly.
Nana Kwame Bediako, founder of the New Force and 2024 presidential candidate, stated at the Africa Real Estate Festival on April 18, 2026, that he will become the President of Ghana. Known as Cheddar, he expressed confidence in his political future despite his perceived youth. Bediako articulated a vision for leading Ghana and subsequently contributing to the development of the African continent. In the 2024 presidential election, he secured 84,478 votes, placing third ahead of Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen, who received 31,202 votes. The Electoral Commission declared John Dramani Mahama as the winner of the election, which featured 12 presidential hopefuls.