'India Has Over 2,500 Political Parties': PM Modi's Speech Leaves Ghana MP's Stunned (VIDEO)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, currently on a five-nation tour that commenced on 2 June, astonished Ghanaian parliamentarians by revealing that India has over 2,500 political parties. The Prime Minister made this remark while discussing India's democratic traditions and its reputation as the "mother of democracy".

"India is often called the mother of democracy. For us, democracy is not merely a system of governance, it is a way of life, deeply rooted in our fundamental values," stated PM Modi.

Citing the Rig Veda, he elaborated on India's historical openness to diverse perspectives, "For thousands of years, we have upheld democratic principles. From the ancient republic of Vaishali to the wisdom of the Rigveda, one of the world's oldest scriptures, which says, 'Let noble thoughts come to us from all directions.' This receptiveness to ideas forms the core of our democratic ethos."

The Prime Minister further noted, "Modern India accommodates over 2,000 political parties, 22 official languages, and thousands of dialects. This diversity isn't a challenge , it's our strength. It's also why India has welcomed all who have come to her shores throughout centuries with open arms."

PM Modi's remarks drew smiles and applause from Ghanaian MPs, who marvelled at India's extraordinary political plurality.

Memorial Visit and Honours

Earlier in the day, PM Modi visited Accra's Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, laying floral tributes at the mausoleum of Ghana's first President, Dr Kwame Nkrumah, and his wife Fathia. Vice President Prof Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang accompanied him during the silent homage.

Modi described Dr Nkrumah as "a titan of Africa's liberation and unity", stating the tribute symbolised India's deep respect for Ghana's heritage and their shared commitment to freedom and justice.

In a significant gesture, President John Mahama conferred upon Modi The Officer of the Order of the Star of Ghana, the nation's highest civilian honour. The Prime Minister called this recognition a matter of "immense pride", dedicating it to both nations' youth.

"I accept this honour humbly on behalf of 1.4 billion Indians. This award belongs to our youth's aspirations, our cultural richness, and the historic bonds between India and Ghana," Modi affirmed.

Some Ghanaian MPS donned Indian attire during PM Modi's speech, check out the video here:

Historic Diplomatic Milestone

Marking the first Indian Prime Ministerial visit to Ghana in over three decades, the trip signifies a watershed in India-Africa relations. During talks with President Mahama, both leaders agreed to elevate bilateral ties to a Comprehensive Partnership, with focus areas including trade, education, defence cooperation, and digital innovation.