Ghana one-member-one-vote reform

In late July 2026 Ghana’s Supreme Court ruled 5‑2 that the delegate system used for party internal elections was unconstitutional, ordering all parties to adopt a universal “one member, one vote” system for selecting leaders and candidates within a year. The case was brought by former ministers and backed by the Attorney‑General’s Department.

Reactions were mixed. New Patriotic Party officials warned that the change could reshape Ghanaian democracy, while the opposition National Democratic Congress stressed the financial and logistical burdens of nationwide primaries. Analysts noted the reform might curb money politics but could shift vote‑buying to other forms.

Experts emphasized funding needs. Oliver Barker‑Vormawor of Democracy Hub reiterated that state financing already flows through the Electoral Commission and urged broader public support to ensure effective implementation of the new system. Senior political scientist Dr Kwame Asante praised the decision as a way to curb “moneytocracy” and improve transparency, inclusivity and the overall quality of Ghana’s democratic process.

NDC chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketia welcomed recent economic stabilisation, urged parties to adopt bottom‑up electoral structures, and warned against third‑term agendas that could undermine democracy.

The ruling is set to reshape internal party democracy ahead of upcoming presidential and parliamentary primaries, expanding participation while raising concerns about costs, logistical capacity and the need for adequate state support.