Political analyst Samuel Boateng has called on the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to review the filing fees announced for members vying for national executive positions, warning that the current charges are excessively high and could disenfranchise capable candidates.
Speaking on the Accra-based radio station, Mr Boateng argued that political organisations must prioritize commitment and hard work over financial muscle.
He cautioned that setting exorbitant fees risks closing the door on competent and dedicated members who lack deep financial resources, while inadvertently favoring wealthy individuals who might underperform if elected.
According to him, the commercialization of internal party elections has wider implications for national governance.
He noted on Nyankonton Mu Nsem on Rainbow Radio 87.5FM that exorbitant filing fees serve as a precursor to poor governance when a party eventually assumes political power, as successful candidates may feel entitled to recoup their investments.
”Political parties must open their doors to committed and dedicated members who may not possess significant financial wealth, but possess the willingness, drive, and capacity to work tirelessly for the party. Monetising the process only favours wealthy individuals who can afford the exorbitant fees, but may lack the competence or commitment to perform when given executive positions.”
”High filing fees are directly linked to the broader challenge of bad governance in our country. When filing fees are pegged at such prohibitive levels, it creates a system where leadership is purchased rather than earned. This serves as a key trigger for poor governance whenever a political party eventually assumes power.”
Mr Boateng urged the party leadership to reconsider the financial requirements and reduce the fees to ensure wider participation. He warned that failure to do so could alienate numerous qualified individuals, ultimately depriving the party of its best leadership potential.
”I am strongly urging the leadership of the NDC to, if possible, crosscheck, re-examine, and review these fees downwards. The current charges are simply too high and risk discouraging and excluding many qualified, capable, and well-meaning party members from stepping forward to contest.”
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana