Businessman Prince Kofi Amoabeng says Ghana’s political system is structured in a way that frustrates even the most competent and well-intentioned leaders, including President John Dramani Mahama, whom he describes as “fantastic” and exceptionally prepared for the role.
Speaking to Bernard Avle on Channel One TV monitored by MyNewsGh, Amoabeng explained that the country’s development challenges extend far beyond leadership ability and are deeply rooted in a mindset problem and a political culture that forces leaders to compromise.
According to him, Ghana’s biggest development barrier is the mentality of the very people tasked with helping the president govern.
He noted that leaders who attempt to enforce discipline or drive reform often face internal resistance from individuals who prioritise personal gains over national progress.
“The most important limitation to development is the mindset,” he said. “If we can get a few people in leadership right, we can change, but it won’t be easy. As you try to change it, come and see scheming.”
Amoabeng argued that the political ecosystem is fundamentally wired to reward patronage.
He explained that many officeholders spend substantial amounts of money to secure their positions, and the instinct to recoup those investments weakens the president’s ability to demand accountability.
“Anybody who is in there, even all the MPs, they’ve spent monies and they need to put their monies back and build a war chest for the next one,” he explained.
He expressed concern that this dynamic makes it difficult for President Mahama to rely on a team fully committed to his vision. “He means well, but I am sure a lot of people who are supposed to be with him are not carried away by the love he has for the people.”
Amoabeng stressed that strong leadership requires uncompromising enforcement of rules. In his view, applying sanctions consistently, without interference, political bargaining or emotional pleas, is key to progress.
He referenced stricter systems used in countries like Singapore and China, where sanctions against corruption are applied firmly. He said this approach is essential but nearly impossible in Ghana because individuals with influence often intervene whenever action is taken.
“Sanctioning is a big part of leadership. Apply the rules even if it’s your father,” he said, adding that Africa’s culture of pleading undermines discipline.
He believes that President Mahama is one of the most prepared leaders Ghana has had, noting his combined experience as MP, Vice President, President and opposition leader.
Yet Amoabeng is convinced that even with such preparation, the president’s impact is constrained by the mindset and behaviour of those around him.
In his view, the challenge is not Mahama’s competence but the environment he must operate
