Ghanaian politicians frequently convert national disasters into political opportunities, rather than addressing their root causes. This pattern allows leaders to gain public sympathy and media exposure, often at the expense of genuine problem-solving. The cycle of recurring tragedies persists as structural issues remain unresolved.
When disasters strike, politicians quickly appear at affected sites. They deliver emotional speeches and offer condolences, often captured by television cameras. This generates political goodwill, portraying leaders as compassionate and responsive. However, this focus often overshadows the underlying problems like poor planning or weak regulation, which may have developed under their own administrations.
This approach fits into a broader Ghanaian political narrative where disasters become a contest of blame. The government often faults previous administrations for neglect. The opposition, in turn, criticizes the current government for incompetence. Both sides prioritize political advantage over bipartisan solutions. This constant blame game diverts attention from preventing future disasters.
Michael Mensah Ahorlu, the author, highlights that this political exploitation is possible due to public complacency. Citizens often reward emotional speeches over measurable results. Communities rebuild in high-risk areas without demanding long-term planning. Illegal construction continues due to lax enforcement of regulations. This cycle of forgetfulness means that after every disaster, national outrage quickly fades.
Disasters also create economic opportunities, particularly through emergency procurement. Governments may invoke urgency to bypass standard competitive bidding processes. This allows for quicker awarding of contracts for relief supplies and reconstruction projects. While necessary in genuine crises, this accelerated procurement can increase risks of waste or misuse of public funds without strong oversight.
The media also plays a role in this dynamic. A politician inspecting flooded communities receives more attention than one funding drainage maintenance. Dramatic rescue operations attract more headlines than routine enforcement of building codes. Politicians understand this media focus and respond accordingly, leading to prevention receiving little political reward.
Ghana’s collective amnesia is a significant weakness. After major disasters, commissions of inquiry are established, and reports are prepared. However, public attention shifts, and recommendations often go unimplemented. Years later, similar disasters recur under almost identical circumstances, perpetuating the cycle.
The solution requires better governance, not just improved disaster response. Government performance should be judged by disasters prevented, not solely by relief distributed. Parliament must strengthen oversight of emergency procurement. It must also ensure transparency in reconstruction spending. Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies must consistently enforce planning regulations, regardless of political pressure. The media should also dedicate equal attention to disaster prevention efforts.