By Comrade Abass Fuseini Sbaabe
Some of those warming up to contest elections at the various levels of the NDC’s political structure will find themselves in miserable messes next year. My observation is that each time the NDC wins power from opposition, there follows a political tsunami that sweeps away many of the incumbent executives at all levels of the party. This recurring trend is not accidental — it is a reaction born out of deep-seated perceptions, frustrations, and expectations within the grassroots.
- The “Chop Chop” Allegation
Every internal election season comes with the familiar chorus of “chop chop” — allegations that some executives benefited unduly from campaign resources or diverted funds meant for the grassroots. Whether these accusations are true or exaggerated, they resonate strongly among the rank and file.
The perception that party executives receive huge sums during elections but spend little on the ground creates deep resentment. Once trust is broken, it becomes almost impossible to win back the confidence of the base.
- The Arrogance of Power
Power, if not managed with humility, easily intoxicates. Some executives, upon assuming office, forget the very people who toiled and sacrificed to elevate them. They become inaccessible, dismissive of advice, and indifferent to the everyday struggles of party faithful.
Such behaviour breeds quiet anger among members who, at the right time, use the ballot to teach painful lessons. The delegates never forget those who neglected or disrespected them.
- The Double Advantage Syndrome
Another factor that will weigh heavily against some incumbents is the issue of dual positions — holding government appointments while seeking to retain party executive roles.
To the ordinary delegate, the position of a party executive is itself a “job,” and anyone already enjoying a government portfolio who still wants to contest internal positions is seen as greedy — someone who wants to “eat with both hands.”
Delegates often prefer to vote for those who are not already benefiting from government appointments, as a way of ensuring fairness and equitable distribution of opportunities within the party.
- The Disconnect Between Party and Government
A recurring weakness within the NDC after assuming power is the widening gap between the party structures and the government machinery. Once in office, some government appointees sideline the party structures that brought them to power.
Constituency and branch executives are often left out of key engagements, appointments, and consultations. This neglect breeds bitterness and erodes loyalty. When internal elections come, these sidelined members unite to vote out those perceived as the architects of their marginalization.
- The Politics of Selective Gratitude
Some executives and appointees are selective in whom they reward. They tend to recognize only those who praised them or campaigned directly for them, ignoring others who also contributed to the collective victory. This creates factions and divides the base.
In internal elections, such selective loyalty backfires — the neglected majority find unity in their shared disappointment and rally behind new faces.
- The Failure to Communicate and Account
A key expectation of grassroots members is regular engagement and accountability. Executives who fail to explain decisions, report on finances, or communicate party plans are perceived as secretive or corrupt. The grassroots interpret silence as guilt.
Lack of transparency therefore becomes a political death sentence for many executives when internal elections arrive. Any last minute attempt to play the role of a listening leader when in fact you turned a deaf ear when you didnt them, will certainly splash in your face.
- The Rise of New Aspirants with Fresh Energy
After every national victory, new faces emerge — younger, hungrier, and more energetic members who believe the old guards have had their turn. These new entrants campaign on the promise of renewal, accessibility, and accountability.
The delegates, tired of old excuses, often find their message refreshing. Incumbents who underestimate this wave of generational change will be swept away by it.
Conclusion: A Word of Caution and Advice
To the incumbents and especially those holding government portfolios, this is the time for sober reflection, not arrogance. The delegates are watching. If you have benefited from the party’s victory, remember to give back — not just in words, but in deeds. Visit your branches, engage your constituencies, and let people feel your presence beyond election seasons.
If you hold a government appointment, consider whether contesting a party executive position sends the right message. Sometimes, stepping aside to allow others an opportunity earns you greater respect and long-term political capital than clinging to every available position.
Above all, humility, transparency, and service remain the strongest campaign tools. The era of entitlement politics is over. The grassroots are more discerning, more vocal, and more unforgiving of neglect than ever before.
Those who fail to reconnect with the people, the real owners of the party will surely learn the hard way that in politics, power is temporary, but perception is permanent.
Source:Mybrytfmonline.com
