Former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has argued that the best form of democracy is one that not only provides for its citizens but also ensures that no one falls behind.
Dr Bawumia, speaking at a public event in Nigeria, underscored the importance of tangible outcomes in democratic governance, stating that democracy should not be reduced to institutional structures alone but must also deliver real improvements in people’s lives.
“We cannot talk about democracy in the abstract. It must be about outcomes that improve people’s lives,” Dr. Bawumia stated.
Dr. Bawumia expressed concern about the alarming poverty statistics in Sub-Saharan Africa, particularly given the World Bank’s report that two-thirds of the global population lives in extreme poverty.
He asserted that the figures demonstrate the critical need for African leaders to address the growing poverty crisis, as failure to do so endangers not only the economy but also the very foundations of democracy.
“The priority for many Africans is survival. When people are struggling to secure their next meal, democracy becomes a secondary concern,” he added.
He also cited the World Bank’s 2024 report on Nigeria, which shows that more than half of Nigerians are living in multifaceted poverty.
He claimed that this compromises political integrity because people who are preoccupied with meeting their basic needs are less inclined to interact with the political system or have faith in democratic procedures.
“The best democracy is one that delivers on its promises,” he said. “When citizens do not have to worry about their survival, they can more fully embrace democratic values and engage meaningfully in the political process.”
“Only when people are assured of their basic needs can they fully embrace the values of democracy,” he concluded.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
