After 67 Years of Civilian and Military Rule, It’s Time to Consider a Non-Political Party System

At the time of gaining independence from British colonial rule on March 6, 1957, Ghanaians were hopeful for an improvement in their welfare and living conditions.

After 67 years of practicing various political systems, these aspirations have not been fully realized. In this article, I propose for Ghana to adopt a new political system that leverages the talents and skills of all citizens to ensure their welfare and a significant improvement in their living conditions.

The Purpose of Governments
The purpose of a government is to manage the human, material, and financial resources of the country to ensure the maximum welfare and significant improvement in the living conditions of citizens.

A Brief Survey of Administrations
Ghana has had 16 administrations, including one one-party civilian government, nine multi-party civilian governments, and six military regimes. The first civilian administration was the Convention People’s Party (CPP) administration headed by the first President, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah. Following his overthrow on February 24, 1966, General J.A. Ankrah headed the first military regime of the National Liberation Council (NLC). The next civilian administration was the Progress Party government headed by Professor K.A Busia, who served for 27 months.

Subsequent military regimes included the National Redemption Council (N.R.C) headed by General I.K. Acheampong, who later became the Chairman of the Supreme Military Council (SMC I). After his removal from office in a palace coup, General F.W.K Akuffo headed the Supreme Military Council (SMC II). Flight Lt J.J. Rawlings took over after removing General Akuffo from office, launching the December 31, 1981, Revolution and serving until he was sworn in as President of the next civilian administration, the National Democratic Congress (NDC). The cycle continued with various civilian and military administrations, including those of Presidents Hilla Limann, J.A. Kufuor, J.E.A Mills, John Mahama, and Nana Akufo-Addo.

Despite the efforts of successive governments to improve citizen welfare through various policies and programs, serious challenges persist in almost every aspect of national life. The national economy is in crisis, necessitating the government to take loans to pay debts.