As Ghana heads into the 2024 elections, the political atmosphere is once again charged with promises of transformation, development, and better governance. But while all political parties aim to lead the nation, it is inevitable that some will end up in opposition. Historically, opposition parties have often found themselves caught up in a cycle of criticism, street protests, and waiting for the next election. I believe this pattern must change.

Opposition is not a position of uselessness, empty rhetoric, or rancour. Any political party that has spent time convincing the public of its ability to bring about change must demonstrate that it can deliver, even from the sidelines. Opposition does not mean idleness. In fact, it should be seen as an opportunity to mobilise the party’s large support base for meaningful national endeavours.

A Call to Action: Mobilising Resources for Economic Ventures

A political party’s strength is not just in its ability to critique the ruling government but also in its capacity to organise and mobilise people toward development. If a party is genuinely committed to improving the country's well-being, nothing stops it from establishing and managing large-scale ventures that can benefit the nation.

For instance, why should an opposition party not own a 40,000-acre farm? Agriculture remains one of the key areas for growth in Ghana, and a political party could lead by example, demonstrating its capacity to manage land, invest in modern farming techniques, and produce food for local consumption and export. With the right resources and planning, such a project could significantly contribute to food security, create employment, and boost the party's credibility.

Additionally, if a party has been advocating for the improvement of public transportation, why wait to be in government? There is no reason it couldn’t mobilise resources to establish a transport company, similar to STC or OA Travel and Tours.

By doing so, the party would not only be creating jobs but also proving that its ideas are viable in practice, not just in theory. A well-run transport business, especially if managed efficiently and profitably, could become a strong revenue stream for the party, allowing it to fund future campaigns with fewer external donations.

Global Examples of Political Parties Owning Enterprises

Globally, there are political parties that have adopted this proactive approach. For instance, in South Africa, the ruling African National Congress (ANC) owns several business entities through its investment arm, Chancellor House Holdings.

The party's investments have been wide-ranging, including stakes in energy, mining, and telecommunications. Although the ANC has faced challenges with transparency and governance, the model of political parties owning businesses can be reimagined for a more accountable, productive approach.

In Turkey, the Justice and Development Party (AKP) has demonstrated how political parties can influence the economy even outside of government. The party, through its networks and supporters, has significant involvement in industries such as construction, media, and real estate, playing an influential role in the economy by fostering growth in key sectors.

While these examples come with their own complexities, they show that political parties can actively engage in economic ventures, supporting development initiatives instead of relying solely on campaign promises.

Revenue Opportunities for Political Party Enterprises

Imagine a political party in Ghana establishing a dairy or poultry farm to substitute imports. Ghana imports a significant portion of its poultry and dairy products, and these are areas that are ripe for local production.

According to reports, Ghana imports over $400 million worth of poultry products annually, and the dairy industry is similarly reliant on imports. If a political party set up large-scale poultry or dairy farms, it could not only reduce the country’s reliance on imports but also create jobs and generate significant revenue.

For example, if a political party-owned poultry farm captured even 10% of the current import market, it could generate tens of millions of dollars annually while contributing to food security and reducing foreign exchange outflows. Similarly, a well-run dairy farm could target the domestic market, cutting down on the overreliance on imported milk products and opening up opportunities for local employment and skill development.

Making Politics a Sensible Vocation

What I propose is a shift in mindset—a move away from the traditional model where opposition is seen as a period of waiting and watching. Political parties should take action even when they are not in power, demonstrating their ability to manage resources, create jobs, and contribute to national growth.

Politics should no longer be a vampire-like, opportunistic society where parties wait in opposition, then indulge gluttonously when they return to power. It should be a vocation rooted in purpose, productivity, and service to the people. When opposition parties mobilize their supporters to acquire useful skills and undertake significant economic ventures, they help to break the cycle of political idleness.

This approach does not only make a party more credible but also proves to the electorate that the party’s promises are not just election-year rhetoric. It shows that they have the will, capacity, and vision to lead, even when they are not in government.

Conclusion

Opposition is an opportunity to showcase leadership, not merely a waiting period. Political parties that wish to lead must be willing to act, even from the sidelines.

By mobilising their base, investing in key sectors of the economy, and demonstrating competence in managing businesses and resources, opposition parties can transform how politics is perceived in Ghana. Let us move away from the cycle of idleness and instead create a politics of action, entrepreneurship, and national development.