CDD-Ghana holds political financing forum in Upper West Region

Ghana is making strides toward better political financing with a new Draft Model Bill, aiming to curb the influence of money in elections. A regional forum in Wa kicked off the discussion.

Forum discusses Ghana’s political financing reform

• The CDD-Ghana and NCCE hosted a forum on February 25, 2026, in Wa.
• It aimed to gather public input on the Draft Model Political Financing Bill.
• The bill targets reducing the growing influence of money in politics.

Officials emphasize the need for better enforcement of laws

• NCCE's John Yibile stressed that good governance goes beyond amenities.
• He urged proper legislation for future generations, citing Ghana's legacy.
• He called for stronger law enforcement once the bill is passed.

Concerns over democracy capture and state control

• Jacob Tetteh Ahuno warned of the risks of unregulated campaign financing.
• He linked the impact of financiers to poor public infrastructure and procurement.
• The bill aims to curb state capture by limiting the influence of wealthy donors.

Experts highlight gaps in Ghana’s current political system

• William Nyarko pointed out gaps like a lack of funding regulations for candidates.
• He emphasized that political parties and candidates should be properly regulated.
• Nyarko believes that how officials get into power matters as much as what they do in office.

Regional forums aim to engage a wide range of stakeholders

• This forum was part of 10 regional discussions being held until March 2026.
• Stakeholders from civil society, academia, youth, and political groups attended.
• The forums are supported by the UK’s FCDO, aimed at strengthening democracy in Ghana.