Lydia Forson: Ghanaian voters are becoming more discerning, no more tribal politics

Ghanaian actress Lydia Forson has made a bold observation about the changing landscape of Ghanaian politics.

According to her, Ghanaian voters are becoming increasingly discerning, moving away from tribal politics and towards a more informed and nuanced approach to electing their leaders.

Speaking with BBC about this year’s election where the incumbent New Patriotic Party (NPP) has lost, the Perfect Picture actress told BBC’s Copnall that Ghanaians voted out NPP due to the government’s lack of accountability.

“Accountability is one of the main things a lot of young people are angry about. The reality is, is there a global crisis? Yes. But when you factor in growing economy, we are going to be hit much harder. 

“Now you have a people who are frustrated and they want to be heard. They are protesting and don't feel like they can protest, they are speaking up and they don't think they are being heard,” she said.

Lydia Forson also shared her thoughts on what the incoming government can do to improve the lives of Ghanaians. 

According to her, the new leadership should prioritize understanding and addressing the everyday struggles of the people.

"So one of the most important things is having a listening leadership. Because if people are upset about something and they come to you and you tell them 'don't talk about it', or you are not allowed to be angry about it, that is a big problem. 

“This election was really about the people, it was about any political party. The electorate is becoming more and more discerning. They are no longer voting necessarily based on tribal lines or loyalty to one fixed party.

When it comes to this new government, it is not about whether we like you or not. Are you going to deliver and if you can't, we are going to hold you to your promises," she said.