Gospel Musician Sonnie Badu has, in a recent interview on Accra 100.5 FM’s Ayekoo Ayekoo midmorning programme with Nana Romeo, expressed skepticism over democracy as a governance system for African nations
He strongly linked many of the continent’s challenges to its abundant mineral and natural resources.
Sonnie Badu also questioned the practicality of democracy in Africa, particularly when compared to monarchies, which, according to him, are better and well-functioning systems than democracy in Africa.
He drew parallels with countries like the United Kingdom, where a monarchy coexists with democratic institutions, and highlighted the developmental progress made by such nations as Dubai and Saudi Arabia, which are also under monarchical rule.
RELATED: I avoid controversies on social media by minding my business – Jackie Appiah
“Sometimes, you see hospitals and clinics that are dilapidated, but the politician’s focus is elsewhere. You will see cases of money spent by politicians on one project or another, and you will ask why they couldn’t use the money to fix schools under trees or something.
“The issue is that when they get into politics and they come across these huge sums of money, they have to pocket that money for themselves and for when they leave power. They also have to use money to settle those living with them.
“You may not understand until you get into their shoes, that’s how politics works,” he said.
He further stressed the stability and advancement brought by monarchs compared to the political turbulence often observed in democracies.
Sonnie advocated for African nations to consider monarchies, pointing to the steady development and safeguarding of resources evident in such systems.
He condemned politicians’ focus on self-interest, attributing it to the exorbitant costs of political campaigns and the necessity to recover investments.
The former musician, now a pastor, lamented the lack of emphasis on the well-being of citizens by African leaders, observing widespread poverty despite ample resources.
He highlighted the familial connections that often transcend political boundaries, fostering a culture of profiting at the expense of the people.
READ ALSO: Teachers’ strike: Teacher unions unhappy over FWSC’s call for Labour Law revision
Acknowledging the imperfections within the political system, Badu implied that such conduct is inherent in politics and might persist until individuals encounter it firsthand. He warned against the deceit embedded in political opposition, often prioritizing politicians’ interests over the populace’s.
In summary, Badu voiced apprehension for the African citizens’ predicament amid political maneuvering, advocating for a deeper comprehension of political dynamics and their societal repercussions.
