The possibility of democratic consolidation in Ghana

Abstract

Over the last decade Ghana moved from military to democratic rule for the third time, holding elections in 1992 and 1996. Both resulted in the election of former military leader, Jerry Rawlings, as president, and his party gained a majority of parliamentary seats on both occasions. This is not a simple case of an authoritarian regime trying to legitimate itself by dubious elections. Instead, Ghana displays some of the signs of democratic consolidation. The presence of a vocal, reasonably effective opposition is gradually affecting Ghanaian politics; and for the first time in nearly 20 years the government has to answer publicly for its programmes and policies. The possibility of another military coup still cannot be discounted, especially if the next elections, in 2000, return a government perceived to be hostile. But it is difficult to imagine Ghana going back to the status quo ante. Most likely is an extended period where both the regime and the state exhibit mixed characteristics of democracy and authoritarianism.