Delegate system ruling will restore merit-based politics – Nyaho-Tamakloe

Dr. Nyaho Nyaho-Tamakloe, a plaintiff in the case challenging the delegate system used by political parties, has described the Supreme Court’s ruling as a significant victory for Ghana’s democracy.

He believes the decision will help restore merit-based politics and ensure that political leadership is determined through broader participation rather than the influence of a few individuals.

The Supreme Court, in a 5-2 majority decision, ruled that the delegate system used by political parties to elect presidential and parliamentary candidates was inconsistent with democratic principles.

The court directed political parties to review their internal electoral arrangements within one year to allow all registered members in good standing to participate in the selection of candidates.

The ruling means political parties can no longer rely exclusively on selected delegates to determine candidates but must develop systems that provide wider participation for their members.

Speaking to Citi  News after the judgment, Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe welcomed the decision, describing it as a positive development that will strengthen Ghana’s democratic foundations.

“The Supreme Court decision is indeed a good decision for democracy. If democracy must continue, then it must be merit-based. Otherwise, it has no meaning,” he said.

According to him, the ruling sends a clear message to political parties that the views and choices of ordinary members must be considered in the pursuit of political power.

Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe said he expects political parties to learn from the judgment and reform their internal processes to reflect the principles of democracy.

“I believe strongly political parties are going to learn a lesson from this, and they should know that the will of the people can never be changed,” he stated.

He argued that political positions should be attained through competence, credibility and acceptance by party members rather than financial influence or personal connections.

“You cannot buy your way to office. That is untenable,” he added.

CitiNewsRoom