Exploring Predictors of Authoritarian Governance Preference in Ghana: A Mixed-Methods Study

Since Ghana gained independence in 1957, the country has moved through alternating periods of democratic governance and military rule. Under the Fourth Republic, guided by the 1992 Constitution, Ghana is widely recognized as one of the most stable democracies in West Africa. Yet, recent conversations particularly among younger Ghanaians suggest a growing sense of admiration for authoritarian-style leadership. Public expressions of support for military rulers in neighboring countries, such as Burkina Faso’s transitional leadership, have fueled ongoing debates about whether some Ghanaians may be reassessing their trust in democratic institutions. This trend raises a critical question: Are citizens, especially the youth, beginning to view non-democratic forms of governance as viable alternatives? To answer this question, the study examines the factors influencing Ghanaians’ preference for authoritarian rule. A mixed-methods design was adopted to gain both comprehensive and in-depth insights. The quantitative component involved a convenience sample of 320 respondents. SPSS was used for analysis. Descriptive statistics such as frequencies, means, and cross-tabulations were employed to summarize key variables. Chi-square tests explored relationships between demographic characteristics and governance preferences, while binary logistic regression assessed predictors of support for authoritarian rule. The dependent variable captured whether respondents preferred authoritarian governance. Independent variables included age, gender, educational level, employment status, trust in political institutions, satisfaction with government performance, and exposure to political information through the media. For the qualitative phase, 15 participants were purposively selected for in-depth interviews. Their responses were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using thematic analysis guided by Braun and Clarke’s six-step process. NVivo software supported the coding and organization of themes. Prominent themes included dissatisfaction with political leaders, declining faith in democratic processes, widespread concerns about corruption, and the belief that centralized and decisive leadership may address national challenges more effectively. Study findings indicate that younger respondents, particularly those identified as Generation Z, showed a higher tendency to support military or authoritarian forms of governance. Men were more likely than women to endorse authoritarian rule. Conversely, individuals with higher educational attainment, those who were married, employed, or affiliated with a religious group demonstrated stronger loyalty to democratic governance. Those favoring military leadership often cited persistent corruption, unmet campaign promises, and the excessive politicization of state institutions such as the judiciary, security agencies, and public administration. Some respondents also admired what they perceived as unity, discipline, and effective leadership displayed by military regimes in Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger. The results further show that youth unemployment, economic hardship, and increasing inequality significantly weaken trust in democratic institutions. Many young people expressed frustration, describing Ghana’s democratic system as slow, polarized, and unresponsive to urgent socio-economic needs. In times of insecurity or heightened political tension, authoritarian governance appeared to some as a quicker and more effective option. The study concludes that although democracy has ensured stability, the slow progress in addressing long-standing socio-economic problems risks eroding public trust. There is the urgent need for meaningful democratic reforms, broader economic opportunities, strengthened civic education, and deeper engagement with young people to protect Ghana’s democratic future.