BY Nadia Ntiamoah
Visiting Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi captivated Ghana’s Parliament on Thursday during a spirited address that emphasized India’s democratic depth and diversity—but it was a single statistic that stole the show: India has over 2,500 political parties.
The declaration, delivered with a deliberate pause and a smile, initially left Ghanaian lawmakers stunned.
Murmurs turned to chuckles when Modi repeated, “Yes, 2,500 political parties,” drawing laughter and applause across the chamber.
Even the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Kingsford Sumana Bagbin, repeated the figure moments later, causing another wave of amusement.
Modi is in Ghana as part of a five-nation diplomatic tour—marking the first time in over 30 years that an Indian Prime Minister has officially visited the West African country.
His visit focuses on strengthening India-Ghana bilateral ties, particularly in democracy, trade, technology, education, and cultural diplomacy.
A Celebration of Democratic Values
Speaking in English, Modi described India as the “mother of democracy,” and stressed that in India, democracy is more than a system—it is a deeply ingrained way of life.
“For us, democracy is not just a system—it is a part of our fundamental values,” he said.
He also quoted in Hindi, “Hamare liye loktantra, system nahi, sanskaar hai,” reiterating his belief that democracy is a cultural ethic in India.
He elaborated on the complexity of India’s democratic landscape, citing 22 official languages, thousands of dialects, and dozens of regional governments led by different political parties.
“True democracy promotes discussion and debate. It unites people, it supports dignity and promotes human rights,” he told the Ghanaian lawmakers.
According to Modi, the peaceful coexistence of diverse political, linguistic, and religious identities is what enables India to welcome others with open hearts—and empowers Indians to integrate seamlessly wherever they go.
Building Bridges Across Continents
Modi’s visit comes at a time of renewed interest in Africa from major global powers. India, with its historic ties to Ghana and other African nations dating back to the Non-Aligned Movement era, is now repositioning itself as a partner in sustainable development and democratic governance on the continent.
In addition to delivering his speech, the Indian leader visited the Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum, where he laid a wreath in honour of the first President, a fellow pioneer in post-colonial leadership and Pan-African unity.
Ghana, which has itself earned global respect for its democratic credentials and peaceful transitions of power, received Modi’s message with warmth and optimism.
Observers say the visit has opened doors for deeper parliamentary cooperation, trade collaboration, and cultural exchange between the two nations.
Ghana is the first stop on Modi’s five-nation tour. From Accra, he heads to Trinidad and Tobago, followed by official visits to Argentina and Brazil—where he is set to attend the 17th BRICS Summit—and will conclude the trip in Namibia.
This diplomatic journey underscores India’s strategic outreach to Latin America and Africa at a time of growing multipolar global alliances.
