Seidu Agongo: Democracy failing Africa because ‘our systems not right’

Businessman and philanthropist Seidu Agongo has raised concerns about democracy in Africa. He believes the systems are deeply flawed, allowing impunity and corruption to thrive.

Speaking on the Master of the Game show with Kwasi Kyei Darkwa on CTV, Mr. Agongo discussed structural weaknesses in African democracies. He did not reject democracy outright but pointed out its ineffectiveness in Africa. Institutional failures continue to deny citizens justice and accountability.

“I don’t want to say I don’t support democracy for Ghanaians to come at me,” he stated. However, he emphasized that democracy is not functioning well due to poor systems.

Mr. Agongo highlighted the abuse of power by government officials. They often exploit state institutions for personal gain without facing consequences. He cited a case in Ghana where a government appointee misused state funds through his own agency. “You can’t do this in America or China,” he lamented.

He criticized Ghana's judicial system, which should uphold democracy but is now politically partisan. This partisanship slows down justice and turns serious issues into battles between political parties like NDC and NPP. “By the time you know, it becomes a foolish case and the Ghanaian suffers,” he added.

Drawing from his experiences, Mr. Agongo spoke about being prosecuted under the Akufo-Addo administration for nearly eight years over fertilizer supply issues with COCOBOD. He stressed the importance of personal integrity and accountability.

“If I’ve done something wrong against the state, let me face consequences,” he said. “But if I have not done anything wrong, the Good Lord will exonerate me.”

He warned about the temporary nature of ill-gotten wealth, noting that many powerful families have faded into obscurity over time. “Go to Labone; all those buildings they are pulling down… their fathers were once big men.”

In Mr. Agongo’s view, democracy requires stronger institutions and effective oversight. “The earlier we take actions to reflect some of these circumstances, the better,” he urged leaders and citizens to demand more from their democratic systems.