By: Dr. Rasheed Draman, Executive Director, ACEPA
July 11 marked a watershed moment in Ghana’s political history.
After a rerun of the Ablekuma North constituency election six months after the 2024 general polls, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) secured a commanding supermajority in Parliament. This dramatic shift ends the delicate balance of power that characterized the 8th Parliament and raises urgent questions about the future of Ghana’s democracy.
For journalists, this is more than just another headline. It is a call to action.
From Deadlock to Dominance
Between 2021 and 2024, Ghana experienced an unprecedented political equilibrium with 137 seats each for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the NDC as well as a lone independent Member of Parliament. This setup forced consensus-building, fostered genuine debate, and strengthened parliamentary oversight. It was a rare period of compromise and accountability that, despite its challenges, benefited our democratic process.
That era has come to an end. With its new supermajority, the NDC now holds enough parliamentary power not only to pass laws with minimal resistance but, more significantly, to amend the Constitution without bipartisan support. While this marks a political victory for the party, it also poses real dangers to Ghana’s democratic fabric – and to press freedom.
Why This Moment Demands Vigilance
Unchecked supermajority power carries serious risks:
- Constitutional overreach: The NDC can now push through amendments unilaterally, without national consensus.
- Weakened legislative scrutiny: Parliament risks becoming a rubber stamp for party policy.
- Marginalization of dissent: Minority MPs, critical media, and civil society actors may be sidelined or silenced.
- Shrinking civic space: Voices that challenge authority could face increased legal, financial, or political pressure.
In this new political reality, the role of the media is more vital than ever.
What the Press Must Do Now
Ghanaian journalists face a defining test. In the face of concentrated political power, the media must step up – not just to inform, but to safeguard democracy. Journalists must:
- Defend democratic values: Uphold transparency, accountability, and separation of powers.
- Amplify silenced voices: Provide platforms for opposition, minority groups, and marginalized communities.
- Interrogate power: Move beyond surface reporting. Ask who benefits, who loses, and what the long-term impact is on democracy.
Yet this won’t be easy. Economic insecurity, partisan media ownership, legal intimidation, and restricted access to information all present formidable barriers. Still, these challenges only underscore the urgency for resilient, courageous, and principled journalism.
A New Model: Journalism That Pushes Back
This moment calls for bold, engaged journalism – work grounded in responsibility, depth, and integrity.
- Deepen political literacy: Journalists must treat the Constitution with the same reverence people give to sacred texts. They must master parliamentary processes and understand not just official power holders, but the informal influencers who operate behind the scenes.
- Pursue stories beyond the news cycle: Move beyond clickbait. Build credibility through sustained, investigative reporting – just as Manasseh Azure Awuni did in exposing systemic corruption.
- Harness digital tools: Technology is no longer optional. Journalists must develop the skills to tell data-driven, multimedia stories with reach and impact.
- Build coalitions: Strategic collaboration with civil society, academia, and independent watchdogs can amplify journalism’s impact and help safeguard press freedom.
Conclusion: Journalism as the Last Line of Defense
Ghana’s democracy is not self-sustaining. Periods of overwhelming political control are also moments of heightened democratic vulnerability. This is where journalism must step in – not merely as observer, but as defender.
So to every reporter, editor, producer, and news anchor: Do not blink. Do not bend. Keep asking the hard questions. The future of Ghana’s democracy depends on your voice, your courage, and your commitment to the truth.