'Are we saying a country of 35 million people can produce only one leader?' - Pratt

Managing Editor of the Insight Newspaper, Kwesi Pratt Jr, has described Ghana’s current political framework as deeply problematic, warning that the high cost of political participation is excluding capable citizens from leadership.

Speaking on Alhaji and Alhaji on Pan African TV on April 18, 2026, Pratt argued that the financial demands associated with contesting elections are excessively burdensome and skew the system in favour of the wealthy.

According to him, the monetary requirements for running for office, particularly the presidency, serve as a major barrier to entry, effectively sidelining many qualified individuals.

“Studies have suggested that in Ghana, to become president, you need to mobilise a minimum of $100 million. Immediately, almost the whole population is excluded from participation,” he said.

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Pratt cautioned that such a system risks undermining national sovereignty, as candidates who rely heavily on large financial backing may become susceptible to external influence.

“If you have a system where you need to mobilise so much money to become president, what it actually implies is that foreign interests will control the country,” he stated.

He added that this weakens the state’s ability to focus on production and meeting the needs of its people.

The veteran journalist also weighed in on ongoing discussions about whether John Dramani Mahama should be granted a third term in office.

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While acknowledging arguments by supporters who cite economic improvements, Pratt questioned the broader implications for democratic governance.

“Are we saying that a country of 35 million people can produce only one leader? What if he dies tomorrow or becomes incapacitated?” he asked.

He stressed that leadership should involve mentoring successors and building systems that outlast individuals, rather than concentrating national direction in a single figure.

“In a country of 35 million people, you cannot be governed by the vision of only one person. Immediately, there are questions about democracy,” Pratt added.

Pratt made the remarks while contributing to discussions on African elections, referencing the recent polls in Benin, where Romuald Wadagni reportedly secured an overwhelming 94 percent of the vote; an outcome that has drawn scrutiny from political observers.

His comments add to the growing debate over the credibility, inclusiveness, and effectiveness of electoral systems across the continent.

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