Conference:

Stability Amidst Chaos: Reflections on Two Decades of Ghanaian Democracy

In anticipation of the December 7th elections in Ghana,the Program of African Studies has organized a conference, titled “Stability Amidst Chaos: Reflections on Two Decades of Ghanaian Democracy.” The goal is to reflect on the successes, challenges and prospects for the future as the country continues on its democratic journey. Ghana has been hailed for sustaining its democratic credentials, and for being a model state for the West African sub-region. Since the transition to democratic elections in 1992, Ghana has had five successful elections. However, in light of recent events, particularly the somewhat mysterious illness and death of President Mills and the uncertainty about his successor and the NDC party, there may be some interesting developments this year.

Thanks to the generous support of our sponsors, The Weinberg College for the Arts and Sciences, the Office for Research, the Graduate School, the Buffett Center for International and Comparative Studies, the Department of Sociology, and the African Students Association.

Conference Schedule:

9-10 am Breakfast

10am Introduction by Kofi Asante & Sally Nuamah

10:15 -12:15 pm

Historical and Institutional Context of Ghana’s Democratic Transition

"From Military Rule to Electoral Democracy: Reflections of a Scholar-Participant"
Richard Joseph, Political Science, Northwestern U.

"Some Thoughts on Two Decades of Liberal Democracy in Ghana"
Richard Asante, University of Ghana, Visiting Scholar PAS

"Historical Legacies of Political Party Development in Ghana and Implications for Democracy"
Rachel Riedl, Political Science, Northwestern U.

Discussant: Sally Nuamah, PhD Candidate, Political Science

Lunch 12:15 – 1:15 pm

1:30 – 3:00 p

Cultural Dimension of Ghanaian Democracy

“Change and Reaction in Ghana’s Political History”
Dennis Laumann, History, University of Memphis

"Leadership, Luck and the Neighborhood Effects of Ghana's Democratic Miracle."
Clement Adibe, Political Science, DePaul University

Discussant: Wendy Griswold, Sociology, Northwestern U.

3:00 – 3:30 coffee/tea break

3:40 – 5:10 pm

Participation and Representation
"Consolidating Representation in Ghana? Parliamentary Malapportionment and Rejected Ballots"
Daniel Smith, Political Science, University of Florida

"Women's Participation in Ghanaian Politics: An Overview"
LaRay Denzer, Independant Scholar

Disscusant: D. Soyini Madison, Performance Studies, Northwestern U.