Speaking on Ikulcha Radio TV/FM in a discussion with Kwesi E. Baako, Dr. Kwadwo Oppong Wadie argued that the introduction of democracy in Africa failed to adequately consider the continent’s unique social structures, cultural values, and historical experiences.
According to him, while democracy as a concept promotes participation and accountability, its wholesale adoption from Western models overlooked indigenous systems of governance that had long guided African societies.
Dr. Wadie noted that many African communities traditionally practiced consultative leadership, consensus-building, and communal responsibility, principles that align with democratic ideals but are expressed differently from Western electoral systems.
He suggested that ignoring these homegrown approaches has contributed to governance challenges, political alienation, and weak institutions across parts of the continent. In his view, democracy was often presented as a rigid framework rather than an adaptable system that could evolve from African realities.
He emphasized that for democracy to truly work in Africa, it must be reshaped to reflect local needs, cultures, and socio-economic conditions. Rather than abandoning democracy, Dr. Wadie called for its rethinking, one that blends constitutional governance with Africa’s traditional values. Such an approach, he concluded, would strengthen legitimacy, deepen citizen participation, and ensure that democracy serves Africans, not just the systems imposed upon them.
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