Netherlands Institute for Multiparty Democracy

Ghana is recognised as guiding light of democratisation in Africa. It is a country where citizens now have a proper choice in electing their representatives and where multiparty democracy has developed firm roots.

Moreover, in the last decade it has managed two peaceful changes of government, with power alternating between the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

How was Ghana able to achieve this? What was the specific role of politicians and political parties, and what lessons can we draw from this experience for other African countries?

Mr Obeng will talk about Ghana's progress from a personal perspective, having served as Chairman of the Provisional National Defence Council (PNDC), the military government that came to power in 1981, as close advisor to President Jerry Rawlings from 1993-2001 under newly established civilian rule, and as advisor to current President John Evans Atta Mills (NDC). He has recently also been appointed Chairman of the National Development Planning Commission.

Having played these essential roles behind the scenes for over 30 years, Mr Obeng is uniquely placed to share his inspirational insights on Ghanaian politics and its current state of democracy.

Event details:

Paul Victor Obeng:
Ghana: from military government to multiparty democracy
Date: April 24, 2010
Time: 11:00 - 12:30
Place: Haagse Hogeschool, The Hague

Tickets for this event can be purchased by visiting the Africa Day 2010 website.