Support for military intervention grows among Ghanaians - Afrobarometer reveals

More Ghanaians support military intervention in politics if leaders fail.

This is according to the 2024 Afrobarometer report by CDD-Ghana.

The survey shows that 51% of citizens favor military control in such cases. This is an 11% increase from 40% in 2022.

Opposition to military involvement is decreasing. The percentage of Ghanaians against military intervention dropped from 55% in 2022 to 47% in 2024.

The findings were shared at a regional event in Kumasi. This event was organized by CDD-Ghana and the Centre for Community Livelihood Development.

The program received support from GIZ under the PAIReD initiative. This initiative is co-funded by the EU and Switzerland’s State Secretariat for Economic Affairs.

It is implemented by GIZ with Ghana’s Ministry of Finance.

A concerning trend shows more youth supporting military intervention. Fifty-two percent of respondents aged 18-25 endorse a takeover if leadership fails. Among those aged 26-35, support rises to 56%.

There are also gender differences in opinions. Fifty-three percent of men support military involvement, while only 48% of women do.

Ms Mavis Zupork Dome, Senior Research Analyst at CDD-Ghana, presented the findings. She noted public opinion on post-military takeover options was divided.

Forty-one percent want a gradual return to civilian rule, even if it takes years. Thirty-eight percent prefer an immediate restoration of civilian governance.

Fourteen percent would accept indefinite military rule if it benefits the nation.

Mr Jonathan Donkor, Technical Advisor at GIZ, stressed citizen participation's importance in governance. He stated that including citizen voices leads to better policies.

He highlighted how data-driven initiatives like Afrobarometer connect citizens and policymakers effectively.

The findings show growing disillusionment with democratic leadership among Ghanaian youth. They highlight the urgent need for better governance and civic education to protect democracy.