THE DILEMMA OF DOING RIGHT IN GHANA: UNDERSTANDING THE BARRIERS TO ETHICAL BEHAVIOUR AND NATIONAL PROGRESS

Ghana, like many nations, prides itself on values of honesty, justice, and patriotism. That notwithstanding, people who strive to uphold these principles and virtues encounter systemic challenges, resistance and even ridicule frequently.
The difficulty Ghanaians face in consistently doing what is right stems from a complex mix of cultural, political, economic, and social factors. While many individuals go all-out for integrity, systemic barriers often discourage ethical behaviour. Below are some key reasons:
1. A Culture of Tolerance for Wrongdoing:
Ghanaian society often tolerates or normalizes unethical behaviour, making it difficult for individuals to consistently do what is right. “If you can’t beat them, join them” is a common saying, reflecting resignation to corrupt practices.
Professor George Ayittey (2006) in Africa Unchained argues that African societies, including Ghana, often operate on a “patronage system”, where people prioritize loyalty over merit. People protect wrongdoers because of family, ethnic, or political ties, rather than holding them accountable. Strangely, a person who reports a corrupt boss may be seen as a traitor instead of a hero. Interesting!
Ghanaians often say, “Please, let’s forget about it instead of demanding accountability.” It is important to mention that we live in a country where honesty is not rewarded and wrongdoing is not punished. We are taught ethical values in schools yet we practice vice. We are taught ethical values in church yet we do the opposite in our offices.
2. Weak Law Enforcement and Lack of Consequences:
Many people do the wrong thing because they know they can get away with it. John Locke, in Two Treatises of Government, argued that a society without strict law enforcement will struggle with moral decay. In Ghana, laws exist but are often not enforced. There are so many non-functional laws. Many corrupt individuals escape punishment due to weak institutions and selective justice. We preach the Theory of Rule of Law, that is, no one is above the law, but is this really true in Ghana? Well, that is what we have on paper. But I ask, is Rule of Law really working? Do you remember the high-profile corruption cases such as the GYEEDA scandal (2012) and Agyapa Royalties deal (2020)? Were those involved punished? Did they suffer any consequences for their actions?
Do you know the sad thing? A poor man who steals plantain is quickly arrested, but a politician who embezzles millions of Cedis faces no serious punishment. Until we empower institutions like CHRAJ, EOCO, and the Judiciary to act independently, most people will always not do the right thing.
3. Economic Hardship and Survival Mentality:
Many Ghanaians struggle to survive daily, making them prioritize short-term benefits over long-term ethical behaviour. Karl Marx, in Das Kapital, explained that when people face economic hardship, they become more likely to engage in unethical behaviour to survive. High unemployment and low salaries make bribery and corruption seem like the only way to get by.
People often feel that “if I don’t do it, someone else will”, so they take advantage of every opportunity, even if it is wrong. Many officials demand bribes because their salaries are low. Even those who receive bigger salaries are still interested in taking bribes. Well, corruption to me never starts at the national level. It starts at the family and small groups level.
Examination malpractice is on the rise because students believe the system does not reward honesty.
4. Political Influence and Tribalism:
Politics in Ghana often encourages wrongdoing, as people support their party or tribe at all costs. Niccolò Machiavelli, in The Prince, warned that politics often rewards deception and personal interest over morality. People support corrupt politicians from their tribe or party instead of holding them accountable.
Political appointments are based on loyalty rather than competence, leading to poor governance. When a government official is caught in corruption, their supporters defend them with “It’s our time to chop” instead of seeking justice. It is so sad that meritocracy is not promoted. What do I mean? Jobs and leadership are based on tribalism and political loyalty, not competence. How then can we develop as a country? Do we expect to progress when we are educated to prioritize party politics over national interest?
5. Religious Hypocrisy and Misinterpretation:
Religion is deeply ingrained in Ghanaian society, yet many people fail to practice the values they preach. This is serious! We know everything about church but less about doing right in society. Aren’t we hypocrites? Jesus Christ (Matthew 23:27) condemned hypocrisy, comparing the religious leaders in his time to “whitewashed tombs”. They were beautiful outside but corrupt inside. Ghana has many churches and mosques, but corruption, dishonesty, and moral decay remain high. Some religious leaders encourage “miracle wealth” rather than hard work and integrity. A politician who steals money will still go for thanksgiving in church and be honoured. Many people pray for success but do not work ethically to achieve it. Why are we like this?
It’s about time religious institutions focused on practical righteousness, not just rituals. They must encourage moral integrity over mere religious activities. We shouldn’t have members who know everything about the Bible or Quran and less about applying the principles in everyday life.
6. Lack of Personal Responsibility and Complacency:
Many Ghanaians believe that change must come from leaders, not from themselves. Such a big error!
It was Mahatma Gandhi who advised, “Be the change you want to see in the world.” However, we failed to heed this advise. Many Ghanaians refuse to take personal responsibility for their actions. People blame leaders, foreigners, colonialism, and the economy, instead of changing their own behaviour.
A driver who complains about corruption may still break traffic rules. Citizens throw rubbish into gutters but blame the government for flooding. Are we serious as a people? There is indiscipline and irresponsibility at all levels of society, hence, our woes.

It is difficult for Ghanaians to consistently do what is right due to:
• A culture of tolerating wrongdoing.
• Weak law enforcement and selective justice.
• Economic hardship and survival mentality.
• Political tribalism and influence.
• Religious hypocrisy and misinterpretation.
• Lack of personal responsibility and complacency.

Way forward?
We must do the following:
• Strengthen institutions to enforce the law.
• Reform education to focus on ethical values.
• Promote economic policies that create opportunities for all.
• Encourage personal responsibility at all levels of society.
As Dr. Kofi Annan (2006) once said, “Integrity, transparency, and accountability are the foundation of democracy.” Until Ghanaians hold themselves and their leaders accountable, real change will remain difficult.

Story by Rockson Oppong