The recent electoral victory of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in Ghana has sparked a wave of anticipation among party supporters, particularly those at the grassroots level, who played a crucial role in the party’s return to power. However, this anticipation has been accompanied by growing anxieties and concerns about potential exclusion from the benefits of governance. Recognizing these sentiments, Mustapha Gbande, the Deputy General Secretary of the NDC, has appealed for patience, emphasizing that the government is still in its nascent stages and requires time to establish the necessary structures for effective governance and equitable distribution of opportunities.
Gbande’s appeal for patience is rooted in the analogy of preparing a meal. He argues that just as a meal requires careful preparation, including gathering ingredients, setting up the cooking area, and allowing sufficient time for cooking, governance also necessitates a methodical approach. The government is currently in the process of laying the foundation for its administration, building the necessary systems and frameworks to ensure effective and efficient governance. This process, like cooking, takes time, and rushing it could lead to suboptimal results. He asks supporters to trust the leadership’s commitment to inclusivity and recognize that premature expectations could undermine the very process they are eager to benefit from.
The concerns voiced by the grassroots supporters stem from a desire for recognition and inclusion in the governance process. Many of these supporters dedicated significant time, effort, and resources to the party’s campaign, often making personal sacrifices to ensure its success. Now, with the NDC back in power, they naturally expect their contributions to be acknowledged and rewarded through opportunities for participation and advancement. Gbande acknowledges these contributions and assures supporters that their efforts are not being overlooked. He emphasizes that the leadership is committed to ensuring that those who toiled for the party’s victory, particularly at the grassroots level, will be duly recognized and rewarded.
The challenge for the NDC leadership lies in balancing the immediate expectations of its supporters with the need to establish a stable and effective government. While acknowledging the urgency of addressing supporters’ concerns, Gbande emphasizes that rushing the process of appointments and distribution of opportunities could be detrimental in the long run. A hasty approach could lead to flawed appointments, inadequate systems, and ultimately, dissatisfaction among the very supporters the party seeks to reward. Therefore, the leadership is prioritizing the establishment of robust systems and processes, ensuring that the foundation for governance is solid and capable of delivering on the party’s promises.
Gbande draws parallels with previous administrations, noting that even they required considerable time to fully establish their governing structures and make appointments. This historical context serves to underscore the point that forming a government is a complex and time-consuming process, regardless of the party in power. It requires careful planning, consultation, and execution to ensure that the right people are placed in the right positions and that the administrative machinery functions smoothly. Therefore, the current situation is not unique to the NDC, but rather reflects the inherent complexities of transitioning to power.
Gbande’s message to the NDC’s grassroots supporters is one of reassurance and patience. He acknowledges their anxieties and validates their desire for recognition and inclusion. However, he also emphasizes the importance of allowing the government sufficient time to lay the groundwork for effective governance. He assures them that the leadership is cognizant of their contributions and committed to ensuring that their sacrifices are rewarded. The key message is that the process of building a government is a gradual one, and rushing it could jeopardize the very outcomes the supporters are eager to see. He urges them to trust the leadership’s commitment and to remain patient as the necessary structures are put in place. Ultimately, the success of the NDC government will depend on the continued support and understanding of its grassroots base, and Gbande’s appeal for patience is a crucial step in maintaining that crucial support.
