Prof. Stephen Kwaku Asare, known as Kwaku Azar, has condemned partisanship as Ghana’s primary obstacle to development. In a statement for Ghana’s 68th Independence Anniversary, he emphasized that historical struggles have now shifted to deep-seated political divisions that erode national unity and cripple vital institutions. He urged Ghanaians to embrace a unified identity and prioritize the country over party interests to combat corruption and restore progression.
Prof. Stephen Kwaku Asare, known as Kwaku Azar, has identified unchecked partisanship as the foremost impediment to Ghana’s progress, surpassing the historical challenges of colonialism and military coups. Speaking on Ghana’s 68th Independence Anniversary, he emphasized that the nation’s greatest threat today is not foreign interference but rather the divisive influence of political allegiance.
Reflecting on Ghana’s history, Kwaku Azar noted that partisanship has severely fragmented the nation, eroding unity and prioritizing party loyalty over national welfare. He expressed concern that the political landscape has devolved into a battleground, with the advancements of national development languishing in favor of party hegemony.
According to Kwaku Azar, the ramifications of partisanship extend to various institutions. The judiciary, he argued, has become swayed by political interests; the media has turned into propaganda outlets, and the civil service largely operates on partisan grounds, undermining meritocracy. Legislative processes focus more on party allegiance than on national service, while social institutions and activism suffer from political bias.
The scholar warned that this environment not only impairs governance but also ensures that new administrations discard previous achievements for partisan gain. Consequently, vital resources, including contracts and opportunities, have diminished in effectiveness as they are dispensed based on political affiliation.
In addressing these challenges, Kwaku Azar called for an essential shift in perspective among Ghanaians, advocating for a unified national identity above partisan interests. He urged prioritization of national merit over party considerations, integrity in leadership, and the restoration of neutrality in key institutions to rebuild public trust.
Concisely summarizing his stance, he rallied for a collective commitment to combat corruption and to wield power responsibly. Azar concluded with a poignant reminder that true patriotism is essential for overcoming contemporary challenges, emphasizing that Ghanaian unity remains the foundation for future victories.
In summary, Prof. Kwaku Azar’s insights reveal the critical impact of partisanship on Ghana’s development. By prioritizing party loyalty over national unity, key institutions have suffered, impeding progress. Azar’s call for integrity, accountability, and a shared national identity underscores the need for Ghanaians to transcend partisan divisions in pursuit of collective advancement.
Original Source: www.ghanaweb.com
