Ghana’s Exemplary Elections Highlight Nigeria’s Electoral Shortcomings
Ghana’s recent presidential election showcased effective democratic governance, with John Dramani Mahama winning after a respectful concession by Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia. In contrast, Nigeria’s 2023 elections faced severe criticism for irregularities and mismanagement despite a substantial budget. Key differentiators include planning, resource allocation, and public trust, highlighting systemic issues in Nigeria’s electoral process that require urgent reforms to restore credibility.
The recent presidential election in Ghana demonstrated exemplary democratic practices, with John Dramani Mahama emerging victorious after his opponent, Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, conceded defeat. Bawumia expressed respect for the electorate’s choice, stating, “The people of Ghana have spoken, the people have voted for change at this time and we respect it with all humility.” Ghana’s election has once again established its status as a beacon of democracy in Africa, receiving praise for its transparency and efficiency from both local and international observers.
In stark contrast, the 2023 general elections in Nigeria have been criticized for numerous irregularities and significant technological failures, despite a staggering budget of N313.4 billion (approximately $215 million). Concerns have arisen regarding the effective utilization of these funds and the conduct of officials within the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). During a press briefing, Mahmood Yakubu, Chairman of INEC, acknowledged the admirable handling of the Ghanaian elections, accompanying a sense of disappointment towards Nigeria’s electoral challenges.
A significant factor contributing to Ghana’s electoral success was the impeccable planning and resource management by its Electoral Commission. Prioritizing logistics and voter education contributed to a smooth electoral process free of major disruptions. Conversely, Nigeria’s INEC faced numerous operational challenges, including failures of crucial technologies like the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and the INEC Result Viewing Portal (IReV), which diminished public trust.
Moreover, Ghana’s election budget reflects a commitment to fiscal discipline, while Nigeria’s expenditures have been criticized for inefficiency and possible corruption, leading critics to question the manner in which the funds were allocated and spent. Another key distinction lies in public trust, with Ghana’s EC fostering credibility through transparency and stakeholder engagement, contrasting sharply with the widespread skepticism surrounding INEC in Nigeria.
While Ghana’s electoral framework is comparatively streamlined, minimizing logistical challenges, Nigeria’s complex electoral structure often overwhelms INEC, complicating operational execution. This juxtaposition between the two nations underscores the critical need for Nigeria to reform its electoral processes, focusing on planning, resource allocation, and fostering public trust to reclaim credibility in its democratic practices.
As Nigeria aspires to be regarded as the giant of Africa, it must reflect on its failures in conducting credible elections, an obligation that smaller nations, such as Ghana, have successfully fulfilled. “It is a shame for our electoral institutions who behave like ruling parties at states and federal levels” – Nigeria Voters’ Forum coordinator Don Umah remarked, further stressing the necessity for INEC to introspect and improve its image.
The development and conduct of democratic elections are crucial indicators of a nation’s political stability and governance. Ghana’s recent presidential elections stand as a testament to effective electoral practices, while Nigeria’s experience highlights pitfalls in its electoral management. The contrasting outcomes of elections in these two West African nations draw attention to the importance of transparency, planning, resource management, and public trust in fostering democratic integrity. Election observers play a vital role in evaluating and validating electoral processes, with both domestic and international bodies scrutinizing elections. Observers’ reports on both Ghana’s smooth electoral process and Nigeria’s challenges illustrate the critical components needed to achieve successful electoral outcomes. Understanding the systemic issues affecting Nigeria can provide insights for necessary reforms aimed at enhancing electoral credibility and efficiency.
The democratic landscape of West Africa is significantly shaped by the electoral processes in its nations, with Ghana exemplifying successful practices contrasted against Nigeria’s turbulent electoral history. The Ghanaian elections highlight the importance of strategic planning, fiscal responsibility, and public trust, elements Nigeria must prioritize to improve its electoral credibility. Continued scrutiny and reform of electoral institutions will be essential for restoring public confidence in Nigeria’s democratic processes, particularly as the nation aspires to take on a leadership role in the region.
Original Source: businessday.ng
