The Nexus between Ethnocentrism and Voting Outcomes in Ghana

Although there have been several views among scholars of ethnic studies about how ethnicity influences voters choice in Ghana's Fourth Republic, this work inquires whether ethnocentrism and voters perceptions can better explain voting outcomes in the general elections in Suame Constituency in the Ashanti Region. The descriptive statistical method was employed for the study. The data was analyzed through simple percentage and tabulation method by the researcher. The results of the findings revealed that ethnocentrism in the Suame Constituency cannot be underestimated by political thinkers and politicians. The decisions of the voters are highly influenced by their ethnic affiliations. Most of the voters are swayed by the ethnic affiliation with their political parties. The study concludes that, the ethnic undercurrents in politics in the Suame Constituency have been fueled by the Asante/Akan support to the NPP and the Ewe support to the NDC. Therefore, ethnicity is indeed a sharp tool which should never be played with when it comes to matters of election in the Suame Constituency.

Autorentext

Amoah Awuah Obed is a product of the prestigious Opoku Ware School. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science Education from University of Education, Winneba- Ghana. He is a teacher by profession and an independent researcher and his research interests lie in Political participation, Education, International Relations.