IMANI-Critical Analysis of Governance and Economic Issues has argued that Ghana’s constitutional design makes it nearly impossible for smaller political parties to thrive, citing it as one of the biggest barriers facing Alan Kyerematen’s new party, United Party Plus (UP Plus).
In its recent policy paper, IMANI explained that the 1992 Constitution’s requirement for the President to appoint a majority of ministers from Parliament automatically disadvantages new entrants without legislative seats.
This, the group said, reinforces the grip of the NPP and NDC over the political system.
“The parliamentary prerequisite locks smaller parties out of governance,” the analysis stated. “Since they cannot win seats, they remain electoral vehicles rather than governing institutions.”
The think tank referenced the struggles of parties like the Progressive People’s Party (PPP) and Ghana Union Movement (GUM), both of which fielded candidates in hundreds of constituencies but failed to win a single seat.
“Such failures perpetuate the public perception that only the NPP and NDC are serious contenders,” IMANI observed.
For UP Plus, IMANI noted, the challenge extends beyond branding and personality appeal.
“Without parliamentary representation, UP Plus cannot implement policy or exercise executive power, even if it gains symbolic popularity,” it warned.
