The National Executive Committee’s (NEC) recent decision to mandate government appointees to resign six months prior to participating in internal elections is a miscalculated move that warrants urgent reconsideration. This directive, though intended to promote fairness, paradoxically undermines the party’s electoral prospects by disenfranchising its most dynamic and influential members.
The NDC’s success in the 2024 elections was largely due to the tireless efforts of its youth wing and communication bureau, led by stalwarts such as Hon. Sammy Gyamfi ESQ, Hon. Malik Basintale, and others. To restrict these individuals from participating in the party’s internal reorganization would be tantamount to shooting ourselves in the foot.
The decision to bar these high-caliber individuals from contesting internal elections is not only premature but also counterproductive. These individuals have been the linchpins of the party’s communication strategy, leveraging their charisma and oratory skills to mobilize support for the party. By restricting their participation, the party would be depriving itself of the very people who have been instrumental in its success. It is illogical to expect that the party can win elections without the active participation of its most dedicated and effective members.
The NEC’s decision also raises questions about the party’s commitment to meritocracy and inclusivity. If the party’s best performers are restricted from participating in internal elections, it would create a perception that the party is not serious about winning elections or promoting the interests of its most dedicated members. The NDC should be encouraging its most talented and dedicated members to participate in the party’s decision-making processes, rather than restricting them. This would not only boost the party’s morale but also enhance its electoral prospects.
Furthermore, the decision to restrict government appointees from contesting internal elections ignores the fact that these individuals have built a strong rapport with the party’s grassroots. They have been instrumental in mobilizing support for the party and have been the face of the party and the government. By restricting their participation, the party would be depriving itself of the very people who have contributed to its success. This decision would be a strategic blunder of monumental proportions, and it is imperative that the NEC reconsiders it.
In conclusion, the NEC’s decision on the internal elections guidelines for potential aspirants who are appointees of the government to resign six months before the contest is a misguided move that should be reconsidered. The party’s success in 2028 depends on the participation of its most dedicated and talented members, including Hon. Sammy Gyamfi ESQ, Hon. Malik Basintale, and others. The NDC should prioritize its electoral prospects and reconsider this decision to ensure that its best players are not restricted from participating in the internal elections.
Written By: Ali Wuni Abdul-Majeed
