By Henry Adjei BOADI
The way and manner we conduct our politics require huge money to be able to prosecute effective and successful electoral campaigns.
Undoubtedly, private financing of political parties invokes distrust and cynicism. These associated negatives are not misplaced most of the time, as the motives of both the givers and receivers of political donations could be questionable.
For our democracy to be sustainable calls for the best, acceptable or more appropriate way and means of financing our politics so that all parts of our societies can have an equal opportunity to participate in political processes and decision-making.
There is enough research to show that the marginalised, minorities and poor people, including women, ethnic minorities and indigenous peoples, lack access to finance and therefore are disproportionately represented or, at worst, excluded from politics altogether.
The Attorney-General, Dr. Dominic Ayeneni”s press conference of 30th April 2025 to the effect that he received a donation from one Sledge and that when it comes to the receipt of donations, all the parliamentarians are guilty has thrown out some nuances that call for a proper look and direction of political parties’ financing.
My call is crucial because disproportionally large donations may be given by corporate, illicit or foreign interests seeking specific outcomes or preferential treatment that subvert the wider public interest.
Devious political sponsors often use their lobbyists in the legislative branch of government to author bills that increase and protect their wealth, through the avoidance of taxes and other means.
Corruption relating to political party financing represents a serious threat to democracy and economic development.
We do know that illicit political financing could lead to at worst, an infiltration of organised crime interests into politics or “State Capture”, and at least undue influence and policy capture. Any of these vices erodes public trust in both government and political parties.
Donations either in kind or cash into political organisations may not be bad in itself however, from the preceding paragraph, we know it can lead to nefarious consequences.
It is for this reason that it is incumbent for us to make political financing transparent to ensure the integrity of our political system.
To achieve the stated objectives, I pose the following questions:
- How do we check the ill effects of illegal and improper financing in our politics?
- How can we make sure that transparency in the sense of the word is extended in our fledgling democracy?
- What are the fundamental steps necessary for creating a viable political finance system in emerging democracies in Africa
Conclusion: The purpose of my questions is to tease our thoughts and increase our understanding of this obscure but very sensitive topic.
I aim to create awareness of the issues and benefits we stand to get from open finances and also to elicit suggestions on practical technical options that could encourage disclosures and strengthen our democratic political processes.
The writer is a corporate generalist and a researcher
