University of Ghana study reveals mixed public perceptions on military versus democratic rule
via GhanaWeb3 min read
A new study by the Department of Political Science at the University of Ghana, titled “Undertones and Public Perception of Military Rule and Democracy in Ghana,” surveyed 6,719 people across all 16 regions. The findings indicate that while a majority of Ghanaians still value democratic governance, frustrations over economic hardship and corruption are leading some to consider military rule as an alternative. Professor Isaac Owusu Mensah, Head of the Department of Political Science, presented the findings, noting that 52.3% of respondents were satisfied with Ghana’s democracy, with 43.5% rating it as good and 10.3% as very good. A significant 92.3% correctly identified democracy as being grounded in the rule of law, human rights protection, and regular elections. However, 85.2% of respondents cited democracy’s inability to deliver economic development, particularly concerning unemployment and the rising cost of living, as Ghana’s biggest democratic challenge. Additionally, 75.5% felt democracy had failed to effectively tackle corruption. The study revealed that 34.5% of respondents would consider supporting military rule if democracy failed to improve economic conditions, and 28.1% due to unchecked corruption. Furthermore, 54.7% believed the military would be more effective in combating corruption, and 49.5% felt military leaders in the Sahel region were performing well. Despite this, focus group discussions showed many participants remained wary of military rule due to concer
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