$150m needed to win presidential election in Ghana - CDD report

A new report by the Centre for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana) has revealed that it now costs an estimated $150 million, plus GH¢10 million, to win a presidential election in Ghana—raising serious concerns about the integrity of the country’s democratic process.

The report, presented to the Constitutional Review Committee, warns that the rising cost of elections is entrenching corruption and weakening accountability in public office due to the growing monetisation of politics.

Dr. Kojo Asante, Director of Programmes at CDD-Ghana, who presented the findings, described the situation as alarming and a threat to good governance.

“We must begin electing leaders with integrity and orienting them towards the public interest. That’s how we drive real development,” he stated.

He stressed that political parties cannot be allowed to regulate themselves, calling for stricter laws and oversight mechanisms.

“There must be provisions to disqualify candidates who flout electoral rules, mandatory asset declarations, and stronger regulatory oversight of political parties by the Electoral Commission,” Dr. Asante added.

CDD-Ghana is urging comprehensive electoral reforms to safeguard Ghana’s democracy and reduce the influence of money in politics.