Benjamin Kofi Quashie, the Chair of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Council of Elders in South Africa, delivered a pointed critique of the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP), characterizing their performance as lackluster and challenging them to elevate their contributions to national development. Speaking on Joy News’ Newspaper Review, Quashie asserted that the NPP hadn’t yet recovered from their electoral defeat in 2024, expressing hope that they would eventually regain their footing and contribute meaningfully to the political discourse. His remarks reflect a broader concern about the NPP’s ability to effectively fulfill its role as the opposition party, holding the government accountable and offering alternative policy proposals.
Quashie’s assessment extended to a nuanced evaluation of the NPP’s parliamentary minority, acknowledging a spectrum of performance among its members. He singled out Kojo Oppong Nkrumah for praise, commending his insightful suggestions and urging the government to give them due consideration. This recognition of individual merit within the opposition ranks suggests a willingness to engage with constructive contributions regardless of party affiliation. Conversely, Quashie criticized Ntim Fordjour’s response to the government-sponsored travel controversy, arguing that it was driven by emotion rather than factual analysis, thereby undermining the minority’s credibility. This contrasting evaluation underscores the importance of reasoned and evidence-based arguments in political discourse, calling for a higher standard of engagement from all parties.
The controversy surrounding government-sponsored travel served as a focal point in Quashie’s critique, highlighting the need for greater transparency and accountability in the use of public funds. He questioned whether the minority’s reaction to this controversy aligned with their self-proclaimed title of the “mighty minority,” implicitly challenging them to live up to their assertive label. This emphasis on accountability resonates with the broader demand for responsible governance and fiscal prudence, urging both the ruling party and the opposition to prioritize the public interest.
Quashie’s call for a more inclusive approach to policy-making extended beyond the immediate controversy. He revealed that he had personally engaged NDC Communications Officer Sammy Gyamfi, advocating for the incorporation of constructive opposition proposals, particularly those from Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, into the implementation of the GoldBod initiative. This proactive approach signifies a commitment to cross-party collaboration and a recognition that sound policy can emerge from diverse perspectives. He explicitly rejected the “winner takes all” mentality that he attributed to the NPP, citing their alleged exclusion of opposition views during the implementation of the National Health Insurance Scheme and the Free Senior High School policy. This critique underscores the importance of inclusive governance and the potential benefits of incorporating diverse perspectives in policy development.
By drawing parallels between the GoldBod initiative and previous national policies, Quashie advocated for a paradigm shift in the management of national resources, particularly gold. He argued for a more collaborative and participatory approach, emphasizing the importance of considering diverse viewpoints to ensure equitable and effective implementation. This call for a paradigm shift reflects a broader aspiration for a more inclusive and participatory democracy where all stakeholders, regardless of political affiliation, have a voice in shaping national policies.
Concluding his remarks, Quashie welcomed Dr. Bawumia’s call for unity during his post-election “thank you tour,” interpreting it as a positive step towards fostering a more collaborative political environment. He underscored the importance of a vibrant opposition in holding the government accountable and ensuring the effective implementation of its agenda. This emphasis on the role of the opposition highlights the crucial function they serve in a healthy democracy – challenging the government, scrutinizing its actions, and offering alternative solutions. By acknowledging the value of a robust opposition, Quashie demonstrated a commitment to democratic principles and the importance of a dynamic and responsive political system. He expressed the belief that a strong opposition would keep the NDC government “on its toes” and drive the successful implementation of its “reset agenda.” This perspective reinforces the idea that a healthy democracy requires a balance of power and a robust exchange of ideas between the ruling party and the opposition.
