Under the theme “Resisting Capture and Strengthening Democratic Resilience in Africa,” the Ghana Centre for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana) launched its groundbreaking Democracy Capture Index (DEMCAP Index), calling on media and civil society organizations to stand firm against the rising threat of democracy capture on the continent.
The event, held in Accra, brought together governance experts, activists, and policymakers to examine the vulnerabilities in Africa’s democratic systems and strategize against undue influence by powerful interests.
Speaking at the sidelines of the launch, Dr. John Osae-Kwapong, Democracy and Development Fellow at CDD-Ghana, noted that while civil society and media institutions currently show resilience against democracy capture, they remain at risk.
“When asked about their vulnerability to future capture, these institutions, especially the media ranked high,” he said. “In Ghana, when public debates become deeply polarized, we rely on these institutions to mediate and refocus the nation on critical priorities. Their independence must be safeguarded.”
Dr. Kojo Asante, CDD-Ghana’s Director for Policy Engagement and Partnerships, emphasized the importance of the DEMCAP Index as a strategic tool in rebuilding democratic values.
“This report is part of a deliberate intervention to counter democratic decline, strengthen resilience, and reimagine Africa’s democratic future,” he stated.
The DEMCAP Index is designed to identify systemic weaknesses that allow powerful groups to manipulate democratic processes, distort governance, and erode public trust. By exposing these risks, CDD-Ghana hopes to drive reforms and encourage stronger collaboration among pro-democracy actors.
As Africa faces growing pressures from political and economic elites seeking to undermine democratic institutions, CDD-Ghana’s message is clear: The media and civil society must remain vigilant, independent, and unyielding in the fight to protect democracy.
The launch of the DEMCAP Index marks a crucial step in this battle,equipping stakeholders with the knowledge and tools needed to resist capture and defend the continent’s democratic future.
Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen
