A university professor has smashed popular beliefs about how Ghanaians choose their leaders. Dr Kwame Asah-Asante from the University of Ghana told radio listeners that tribe and religion do not control voting decisions. The political science lecturer spoke on Neat FM Wednesday and challenged people who think ethnic groups stick together at election time. He argued that voters care more about competence than where candidates come from. The academic said these identity factors might shape opinions but they never decide who wins.
The professor pointed to former President Jerry Rawlings as proof that his theory works. Rawlings belonged to Ghana's third-largest ethnic group but still dominated elections for years. The ex-leader kept winning votes from people across all tribal backgrounds. Dr Asah-Asante said Rawlings succeeded because he had national appeal and strong leadership skills. The academic used the example to show that ability beats tribal connections every time.
Religious voting patterns also got debunked by the university lecturer. Muslims make up the second-biggest religious group in Ghana but they do not vote as one block. Dr Asah-Asante pointed out that Muslim voters backed different candidates in the 2024 elections. The professor called for smarter political analysis that focuses on policies and track records. He believes Ghanaians have grown up politically and judge leaders on performance rather than background.
The professor pointed to former President Jerry Rawlings as proof that his theory works. Rawlings belonged to Ghana's third-largest ethnic group but still dominated elections for years. The ex-leader kept winning votes from people across all tribal backgrounds. Dr Asah-Asante said Rawlings succeeded because he had national appeal and strong leadership skills. The academic used the example to show that ability beats tribal connections every time.
Religious voting patterns also got debunked by the university lecturer. Muslims make up the second-biggest religious group in Ghana but they do not vote as one block. Dr Asah-Asante pointed out that Muslim voters backed different candidates in the 2024 elections. The professor called for smarter political analysis that focuses on policies and track records. He believes Ghanaians have grown up politically and judge leaders on performance rather than background.
