NPP Desperation for Power Would Plunge this Country into Serious Difficulties

While the National Democratic Congress (NDC) is still celebrating its electoral victory, it must not lose sight of the political strategies of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), which could create serious challenges for the country if not properly managed.

The NPP has made its intentions clear by suggesting that it is prepared to make the country ungovernable. Its repeated claims that President John Mahama government cannot do anything to them should not be taken lightly.

The party tested the government's resolve during the vetting of ministerial nominees, when some of its members engaged in conduct that brought Parliament into disrepute. Unfortunately, despite the seriousness of the incident and the subsequent report, there appears to have been little accountability. Some NPP members have also made questionable allegations against Members of Parliament, including the Speaker, without facing any apparent consequences.

This raises an important question: Is Speaker Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin being too accommodating towards the NPP because some of its members supported his election as Speaker?

What the NDC appears to be overlooking is that the political structures and networks established by the NPP during its time in government remain active and influential. Some sections of the media also appear to give considerable attention to the NPP's agenda, often leaving the NDC on the defensive.

The revelations made by Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa about alleged wrongdoing under the previous administration were supported by research and documentary evidence. However, allegations against the current government often receive widespread media attention, even when sufficient evidence has not been presented. This raises concerns about fairness and the need for responsible journalism.

Ghanaians endured serious economic and social hardships during the NPP's eight years in government. Yet, the party has not adequately addressed many of the concerns surrounding its record in office. Despite this, it remains determined to return to power. The NDC must therefore remain alert and avoid political complacency.

Any government that underestimates the political strength and organisational capacity of the NPP does so at its own peril. The controversy surrounding the alleged Agyapadie document should also remind the NDC of the importance of remaining vigilant about political networks and strategies, of the NPP whether in government or opposition.

There are also concerns about possible infiltration of the NDC's political structures and government institutions by individuals whose interests may not necessarily align with the party's agenda. The government must take such concerns seriously and ensure that appointments are based on competence, loyalty and commitment to its policies.

Listening to the NPP's recent political statements, it is clear that the party is preparing to intensify its activities. The controversy surrounding Ken Ofori-Atta's return to Ghana is particularly important. The NDC must not assume that the matter will automatically work in its favour politically. There are concerns that his return could be timed in a way that leaves insufficient time for a thorough investigation and possible prosecution before the next general election.

The NDC must understand that time is running out. Failure to pursue credible allegations of wrongdoing and ensure accountability could give the opposition an opportunity to regain public support through political distractions.

The government must demonstrate its commitment to the rule of law by ensuring that credible allegations of corruption are properly investigated and that anyone found culpable faces the appropriate legal consequences.

The NDC must remember that winning an election is different from protecting an electoral mandate. Ghanaians expect effective governance, accountability and a clear departure from the practices they rejected at the polls.

The NDC must wake up to the political realities confronting it. This is not the time for complacency or prolonged celebrations. It is time to strengthen the party, deliver on campaign promises and demonstrate that the trust Ghanaians have placed in the government was not misplaced.

Mike Kalley
Sociopolitical Analyst.