Yet new research suggests that beneath the surface of competitive elections lies a political economy that systematically restricts access to power, particularly for women, youth and first-time aspirants. GENCED’s analysis indicates that these fees, when combined with campaign costs and inducements for delegates, create barriers that disproportionately exclude women, youth, and newcomers to politics. Certain political parties offer fee waivers for women aspirants, while civil society organisations, including CDD-Ghana, provide mentorship and leadership programs for young people. The study underscores that while Ghana’s democracy has matured institutionally since 1992, systemic barriers within party politics continue to marginalise minorities, particularly women and youth. Without deliberate reforms to dismantle financial, political, and cultural obstacles, the report warns that Ghana risks entrenching an exclusionary political system that undermines democratic legitimacy and representation.