The Ghana Statistical Service’s (GSS) Governance Series Report Wave 1, released in May 2025, reveals that many Ghanaians feel excluded from government decision-making processes.
According to the report, over 70% of respondents believe the current governance system does not allow for meaningful public participation. It also highlights a troubling increase in bribery across the country.
Speaking on Denkyiraman Radio’s National Agenda, political analyst AC Ohene endorsed the findings, saying the data accurately reflects the current state of affairs in Ghana.
“The GSS report’s claim that 1 in 6 people pay bribes is, in my opinion, an underestimation. The reality is that bribery is pervasive closer to 5 in 6 people are likely paying bribes just to access basic services,” he stated.
Mr. Ohene described the report as a “genuine depiction” of Ghana’s governance crisis, calling the situation “worryingly bad.”
He attributed much of the problem to the two dominant political parties, criticizing them for failing to set a moral example for the nation. He also expressed disappointment in key institutions, including the National Commission for Civic Education, the Electoral Commission, and Members of Parliament, stating their anti-corruption efforts often lack transparency and genuine commitment.
“We’re all complicit in the rise of bribery in this country. Every citizen seems to be acting out of selfish interest,” he said.
Mr. Ohene called for a national shift in mindset, emphasizing the need for accountability, exposure of corrupt individuals, and punishment that deters others.
He also urged state workers to abandon a culture of complacency and fulfill their responsibilities diligently.
“We need to stop engaging in behaviors that threaten civil peace. We’re not fully implementing the democracy and constitutional instruments we’ve chosen for ourselves. The legal frameworks are all available we just need to follow them,” he concluded.
