Professor Chris Imafidon reviews the reasons why the political achievements in one of the oldest African democracies Ghana was not celebrated globally.
Ghana’s recent presidential inauguration, which saw John Dramani Mahama sworn in for his third term as president, has been a significant event for the West African nation and the continent as a whole. However, the relative lack of coverage by major Western media outlets has raised questions about the priorities and biases in international news reporting.
A Historic Moment for Ghana
On January 7, 2025, John Mahama took the oath of office as Ghana’s president, marking a return to power after eight years in opposition. This peaceful transition of power underscores Ghana’s reputation as a beacon of democracy in West Africa, a region that has recently experienced political instability and military coups. The inauguration was attended by approximately 20 African leaders and numerous foreign dignitaries, highlighting its importance on the continental stage. The event also saw the swearing-in of Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang as vice president, making her the first woman to hold this position in Ghana’s history.
Significance of the Election
Mahama’s victory in the December 2024 election was decisive, with his National Democratic Congress (NDC) party securing 56.55% of the vote compared to 41.61% for the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP). This landslide victory, along with the NDC’s significant majority in parliament, reflects a strong mandate for change from the Ghanaian people. The election results can be seen as a response to the economic challenges faced by Ghana in recent years. Mahama campaigned on a promise to “reset” the country, addressing issues such as high unemployment, inflation, and public discontent. His victory represents a desire for new leadership and fresh approaches to tackling Ghana’s pressing problems.
Women in Leadership: A Positive Step
The appointment of Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang as vice president is a milestone for women’s representation in Ghanaian politics.
This development aligns with a growing trend across Africa of women assuming high-level political positions, challenging traditional gender roles and paving the way for greater inclusivity in governance.
Stability Amidst Regional Turmoil
Ghana’s successful election and peaceful transition of power stand in stark contrast to the recent political upheavals in neighboring countries. The region has witnessed military coups in Burkina Faso, Niger, and Mali, raising concerns about the stability of West African democracies. In this context, Ghana’s democratic process serves as a positive example and a source of hope for the region. It demonstrates that peaceful, democratic transitions are possible and can lead to meaningful change, even in the face of significant economic and social challenges.
Western Media Coverage: A Curious Absence
The relative lack of coverage of Mahama’s inauguration by major Western media outlets is indeed noteworthy. This absence of reporting raises questions about the priorities and biases in international news coverage, particularly when it comes to positive developments in African nations. Several factors may contribute to this apparent “blackout”:
- Crisis-driven reporting: Western media often prioritize stories of conflict, crisis, or upheaval. A peaceful democratic transition, while significant, may not fit the narrative of “newsworthy” events in Africa that Western audiences have come to expect.
- Limited resources: Many Western news organizations have reduced their international coverage in recent years, particularly in regions like Africa. This may result in less comprehensive reporting on events that are not perceived as directly impacting Western interests.
- Competing news stories: The timing of the inauguration may have coincided with other major international events that dominated news cycles in Western countries.
- Lack of understanding: There may be a limited appreciation among Western media outlets for the significance of democratic consolidation in countries like Ghana, especially in the context of regional instability.
- Unconscious bias: Some critics argue that Western media tend to focus on negative stories from Africa, perpetuating stereotypes and overlooking positive developments.
The Importance of Balanced Reporting
The lack of substantial coverage of Ghana’s successful democratic transition in Western media is a missed opportunity. It deprives global audiences of a clear understanding of political developments in Africa and reinforces a skewed perception of the continent. Balanced reporting on African affairs is crucial for several reasons:
- Challenging stereotypes: Highlighting successful democratic processes in African countries can help counter negative stereotypes and provide a more accurate picture of the continent’s diverse political landscape.
- Promoting democratic values: Giving attention to peaceful transitions of power in Africa can encourage and support democratic movements across the continent and beyond.
- Fostering international understanding: Comprehensive coverage of African political events can contribute to better-informed foreign policies and more effective international cooperation.
- Inspiring hope: Stories of democratic success can serve as inspiration for citizens in other countries struggling with political instability or authoritarian rule.
Looking Ahead
As President Mahama begins his new term, he faces significant challenges, particularly in addressing Ghana’s economic difficulties. His success or failure in tackling these issues will have implications not only for Ghana but for the wider region as well. The international community, including Western nations, should pay close attention to developments in Ghana. The country’s stability and economic progress are crucial for the entire West African region, especially given the recent political upheavals in neighboring states.
COVERAGE
Ghana’s recent presidential inauguration represents a significant moment for African democracy. The peaceful transition of power, the election of the country’s first female vice president, and the strong mandate for change all deserve greater recognition on the global stage.The relative lack of coverage in Western media should prompt reflection on how international news is prioritized and reported. It is crucial for media outlets to strive for more balanced and comprehensive coverage of African affairs, recognizing both challenges and successes.As Ghana moves forward under President Mahama’s leadership, the country has an opportunity to reinforce its position as a democratic leader in West Africa. The international community should support these efforts, recognizing that Ghana’s success can contribute to greater stability and prosperity across the region.
Professor Chris Imafidon is an internationally renowned adviser to monarchs, governments, presidents and corporate leaders and chairs, ExcellenceinEducation.org.uk, an alliance of inner-city educational charities and institutions that mentors youths, women and professionals in the commonwealth. He is co-chair, of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II platinum jubilee’s education programme. He is a multi-Guinness World record holder. Mentor to multi-millionaire tech entrepreneurs & many world record holders. His Artificial Intelligence, and other research or innovation have been recognised internationally, winning multiple awards. Professor Imafidon is 5X International Bestselling author; Mentor to New York Times Bestellers and a Sunday Times Op-ed author, a Wall Street Journal BestSelling author and a regular contributor to British and international media;. [Twitter @ChrisImafidon; Instagram @CoImafidon; Facebook/Linkedln/ClubHouse –Professor Chris Imafidon
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