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Ghanaian Analyst Urges Embracing Criticism for Better Governance

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  Published in Politics and Government on Wednesday, January 14th 2026 at 13:21 GMT by Ghanaweb.com

Accra, Ghana - January 14th, 2026 - In a climate often dominated by political defensiveness, a prominent Ghanaian political analyst is championing a perspective that could reshape how governing bodies across the nation - and potentially the continent - engage with public discourse. Bernard Asah Asante, speaking recently on the importance of critical feedback, delivered a powerful message: criticism is not an attack, but a vital lubricant for effective governance.

Asante's statement, delivered in response to recent critiques of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) government, reframes criticism not as a destructive force, but as an integral element of a healthy and responsive political system. He likened it to "oils that grease the wheels of governance," a particularly apt analogy emphasizing the function of constructive disagreement in allowing progress to continue smoothly.

The core of Asante's argument lies in the idea that criticism serves as a crucial check on power. Governments, inevitably, operate within a complex web of pressures - political, economic, and social. Without a robust system for identifying and addressing shortcomings, those pressures can lead to policy missteps, inefficiencies, and ultimately, a disconnect between the government and the governed. Criticism, in Asante's view, provides that vital corrective mechanism.

"It's true that when you accept criticisms, it may hurt," Asante acknowledged. However, he countered that the short-term discomfort is a worthwhile investment in long-term improvement. "It makes you see things that you did not know." This sentiment highlights a key challenge for many leaders: the willingness to confront uncomfortable truths about their performance and the impact of their policies.

The NPP, like any governing body, has faced its share of scrutiny. Asante recognized the government's responses to some of these criticisms, a sign that at least some level of engagement is occurring. However, he emphasized the need for a deeper, more proactive approach. "You can't shy away from them because you are in government, you have to accept them and deal with them." This isn't merely about responding to criticisms after they've been voiced, but actively seeking out diverse perspectives and creating channels for citizens to provide feedback.

Beyond the NPP: A Broader Perspective

Asante's observations extend far beyond the specific criticisms leveled at the NPP. They resonate with a larger trend observed in democracies worldwide: the increasing importance of citizen engagement and accountability. In an era of rapid technological advancements and instant information dissemination, citizens are more empowered than ever to voice their concerns and hold their leaders accountable. Ignoring or dismissing these voices carries significant risks, including eroding public trust and fostering political instability.

Furthermore, Asante's perspective highlights a shift from a top-down model of governance to a more collaborative approach. The notion of the government as the sole possessor of wisdom and solutions is increasingly outdated. Effective governance in the 21st century requires embracing diverse viewpoints, incorporating citizen feedback into policy development, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

The Challenges Ahead

While Asante's message is timely and relevant, implementing his recommendations presents several challenges. Political egos and the desire to maintain power can often create barriers to accepting criticism. Furthermore, the sheer volume and often polarized nature of online discourse can make it difficult to discern constructive feedback from mere noise.

However, the potential benefits of embracing a culture of openness and accountability far outweigh the challenges. By actively seeking out and incorporating criticism, governments can not only refine their policies and improve their performance but also strengthen their legitimacy and build trust with the people they serve. Bernard Asah Asante's words serve as a powerful reminder that the most effective governance is not about avoiding criticism, but about using it as a tool for growth and progress.