On Thursday, 21 May 2026, the National College of Defence Studies (NCDS) organised a seminar on Democracy and National Development at the College Auditorium, Burma Camp. The seminar aimed to deepen participants’ understanding of the relationship between democracy and national development and to examine the extent to which democracy promotes national cohesion in Ghana and across Africa.
The seminar brought together distinguished panellists, including Professor Kwesi Prempeh, Director of the Ghana Centre for Democratic Development (CDD), who chaired the session; Professor Baffour Agyeman-Duah, Chief Executive Officer of the Kufuor Foundation; Honourable Inusah Fuseini, former Member of Parliament for Tamale Central; and Mr Kofi Bentil, Vice President of IMANI Africa.
In their presentations, the panellists agreed that democracy remains fundamentally “government of the people, by the people and for the people.” They acknowledged Ghana’s significant progress in democratic governance, describing the country as a shining example in Africa, particularly for its consistent and peaceful transfer of political power between successive governments.
The speakers, however, noted persistent challenges that can be overcome through effective leadership, institutional strengthening, and greater transparency and accountability. They further highlighted the close relationship between democracy and national development, explaining that democracy promotes accountability, citizen participation, and inclusive development.
The panellists also emphasised the critical role of democracy in national development, describing the democratic process as gradual and, at times, frustrating, yet ultimately beneficial to society. They cautioned against military intervention in governance, noting that the use of force and unconstitutional means undermines democratic progress. Instead, they advocated dialogue and negotiation as effective means of resolving national challenges.
Additionally, the speakers emphasised that democracy and security remain essential pillars of sustainable national development in Ghana. They called for greater decentralisation, a stronger separation of powers, and enhanced checks and balances to improve governance and democratic accountability. Concerns about national cohesion and governance structures were also raised, with an emphasis on the need for political leadership and state institutions to work closely and eschew divisiveness to safeguard democratic gains.
The seminar was attended by a three-member delegation from the Malawian Defence Force, who were on a benchmarking visit to Ghana.
In his closing remarks, the Commandant of NCDS, Major General Frederick Dankyi Ntiri, thanked the distinguished panellists for sharing their knowledge and experience with participants. On behalf of the College, he presented plaques to the panellists and the Malawian delegation in appreciation of their contributions.
