Abstract
This paper attempts a critical discourse analysis of the political speeches of Ghana’s Nana Konadu Rawlings and Nigeria’s Oby Ezekwesili with the aim of investigating how words are used for ideological representation. Data were analyzed qualitatively using Fairclough’s (1992) concept of wording, and van Dijk (2001, 2006) critical discourse analysis. The theoretical framework was complemented by LancsBox X version 6.0 which was used for quantitative analysis/data visualization. The findings reveal that the two female presidential candidates use words which showcase their capabilities and give them positive self-representation. The study also reveals a polarized gender ideological mapping: collectivism versus exclusion. Konadu-Rawlings, through her lexical choices, advocated participatory democracy where men and women are adequately involved in governance. Ezekwesili believes that Nigerian male politicians have done more harm than good to Nigeria’s democracy and should, therefore, step aside. The study concludes that lexical choices are not only useful for ideological nuancing but are deployed by Rawlings and Ezekwesili to present themselves as valid alternatives in male-centred Ghanaian and Nigerian democracies.
Published Version
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