Decentralization and Pro-poor Participation in Ghana: Unmasking the Barriers to Inclusive Grassroots Development

Abstract Donors have strongly advocated decentralization on the grounds that it broadens participation of citizens in development processes, thereby increasing government responsiveness to their needs. Although there been studies seeking establish veracity this claim, they remain weak two fronts. One, while wealth differentials affect citizen participation, these approach as a homogenous group. Two, is mostly viewed narrowly—participation elections. Drawing empirical data from Ghana’s reform, paper addresses gaps by questioning how pro-poor decentralized planning has been. I argue although was propagated championing grassroots governance and development, reality, elitist failed reflect voices poor. My findings demonstrate structures processes used local are unfavourable poor many respects. Elite representative promoted detriment broad participation. This exclusion resulting surging apathy towards district assemblies—institutions hitherto trusted champions. concludes will voiceless despite unless structural barriers tackled design praxis.