In Ghana, election years transform the nation’s atmosphere into a vibrant, highly energized scene filled with symbolism, celebration, and occasional tension.

This atmosphere has been colloquially described as a “frenzy,” and it’s one that pulses with the rhythmic sounds of tambourines, the striking visuals of party costumes, and, metaphorically, the “muskets” — an apt symbol for the high stakes and intense, often adversarial, nature of election campaigning.

Tambourines: Celebratory and Rhythmic Engagement

The tambourine represents the beat of engagement and the collective spirit of celebration that sweeps through Ghana during election campaigns.

Political rallies are typically vibrant, community-centered events with drumming, music, and dance, connecting with the Ghanaian tradition of using music as a powerful unifier.

Party members and candidates, whether from the ruling government or opposition, rally support through song and rhythm, creating a charged atmosphere. This celebratory soundscape builds enthusiasm among supporters and, for many, provides a means to express political commitment and hope.

Costumes: Identity, Allegiance, and Symbolism

Costumes in the marketplace are more than just colourful party apparel; they embody allegiance, identity, and pride in the political parties each piece represents. From scarves to shirts to the iconic “party cloth,” these items are proudly worn by supporters and act as symbols of solidarity. In Ghana, political parties are often identified by vibrant colours, with the New Patriotic Party (NPP) represented by red, blue, and white, while the National Democratic Congress (NDC) is represented by red, green, and black. Supporters wear these colours as emblems of identity, signifying their alignment and collective identity.

This display of identity transcends mere party loyalty; it reflects the deep-rooted respect Ghanaians have for democracy and political expression. The costumes contribute to a carnival-like atmosphere, making political engagement a visual experience. Yet, these displays also have the potential to deepen divides, creating visible “us vs. them” dynamics that can sometimes escalate into tension.

Muskets: High Stakes and Tensions

The “muskets” of Ghana’s election year refer to the competitive and sometimes volatile atmosphere that emerges as Election Day approaches. With high political stakes and passionate rivalries, election periods are not only festive but can be conflict-prone. Campaign rallies can sometimes veer into confrontational territory, with strong words and occasionally clashes between opposing supporters. The use of military and policing presence is sometimes heightened to ensure peace and stability, as political tensions peak in the lead-up to the elections.

The Author: Kasise Ricky Peprah

In the marketplace of ideas, debates over policies, the economy, and governance become heated, with discussions often spilling into local meeting points and homes. Social media and radio stations amplify these discussions, serving as platforms for supporters to express their positions with fervour. This adds to a combustible environment where political differences occasionally lead to friction.

Conclusion: A Dynamic, Sometimes Tense Democracy

In Ghana, election years capture the country’s commitment to democratic engagement, drawing from a blend of celebration, solidarity, and strong discourse. The sounds of tambourines, the display of costumes, and the metaphoric muskets highlight both the excitement and the tensions that characterize these periods.

While the intensity can lead to challenges, it also underlines Ghana’s enduring democratic spirit. The election-year frenzy, vibrant and complex, remains a testament to the Ghanaian people’s dedication to shaping their nation’s future.

About the Author

Kasise Ricky Peprah is a Ghanaian commentator with a multifaceted career. Rooted in his Roman Catholic faith, he hails from Sirigu in the Upper East Region of Ghana. He pursued Spanish, French, and Political Science at the University of Ghana, later complementing these studies with International Relations. His academic journey includes an LL.B. from GIMPA and an LL.M. from the University Of Ghana School Of Law, enhancing his foundation in legal scholarship.

Kasise is fluent in English, French, and Spanish, along with several Ghanaian languages and Hausa, underscoring his linguistic versatility and cultural awareness. Over the past decade, he has become a prominent advocate against alcohol addiction, drawing from his personal journey to sobriety, which began in 2010. His passion in this area has made him a leading voice in addiction awareness and recovery.

His insights and opinions on a broad spectrum of issues have made him a sought-after panellist on Ghana’s leading television networks, including TV3 and GBC 24, as well as numerous radio platforms nationwide. Additionally, as a columnist for The Catholic Standard—Ghana’s longest-standing independent weekly—he contributes thoughtfully on matters of faith, culture, and social justice.

Beyond traditional media, Kasise has established a digital presence through his blog, The Ramblings of the Forgotten Seer on WordPress, since 2014. His reflections are also captured in his two published works, The Pessi-Optimist and The Skeptical Pilgrim, both of which provide an introspective look at the challenges and triumphs of modern life through a blend of skepticism, faith and cosmopolitan experience.

Kasise Ricky Peprah

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