President John Dramani Mahama has called for renewed efforts to strengthen democratic governance, enhance citizen participation and build a development model rooted in Ghana’s own institutions and capabilities.
Speaking at the Fourth Annual Convening of the Ghana Civil Society Forum, the President reflected on the country's democratic journey since the inception of the Fourth Republic, highlighting key achievements that have shaped Ghana’s political landscape over the past three decades.
He pointed to the country's peaceful transfers of power, stronger democratic institutions, vibrant media environment and increasing citizen engagement as significant milestones that must be safeguarded and strengthened.
According to President Mahama, democracy should not be measured solely by the conduct of elections but by the extent to which citizens feel represented and public institutions remain accountable.
The President stressed that the true test of democratic governance lies in whether public policies respond effectively to the needs of ordinary citizens and whether development reaches communities across the country.
He noted that accountable institutions and active citizen participation remain essential to sustaining public trust and ensuring inclusive national development.
President Mahama also used the occasion to advocate a fresh approach to Africa’s development agenda, urging countries on the continent to place greater emphasis on domestic capacity, innovation and enterprise.
Building a Self-Reliant Development Model
While acknowledging the support of development partners over the years, the President said Ghana must work towards a more resilient and self-sustaining development framework driven by national ownership and local resources.
He explained that this vision continues to guide his administration’s policy direction, including reforms focused on prudent economic management, enhanced domestic revenue mobilisation, economic diversification, export promotion and strategic investment attraction.
President Mahama further commended civil society organisations for their role in advancing democracy and development in Ghana.
He described civil society groups as vital champions of human rights, transparency, accountability and inclusive growth, noting that many of Ghana’s democratic gains have been achieved through constructive civic engagement.
The President reaffirmed his commitment to continued collaboration with civil society organisations, stressing that strong partnerships between government and citizens remain crucial to advancing Ghana’s democratic and development aspirations.
READ ALSO: Ghana Gold Board to Purchase 30% of Large-Scale Miners’ Gold Output
