The Secretary-General of the Ghana Federation of Labour (GFL), Abraham Koomson, has urged the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) to strengthen its grassroots structures and communication machinery to counter what he describes as persistent propaganda by the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP).
Speaking on the Ahotor FM Morning Show in Accra-Tema, Mr Koomson said the NPP was making significant efforts to dominate the media space and shape public opinion. He warned that the NDC appeared to be underestimating the opposition’s activities.
According to him, public awareness has increased considerably, but misinformation and propaganda remain powerful tools capable of influencing citizens who may not have the time to independently verify political claims.
Mr Koomson said the NDC must recognise that political communication goes beyond the activities of government officials and requires a strong presence at the grassroots level.
He argued that party structures must be strengthened to ensure that misleading claims are quickly challenged with facts and evidence before they gain public acceptance.
Concerns Over Grassroots Morale
The labour leader expressed concern that some NDC supporters and grassroots members were becoming frustrated and disappointed, particularly over what they perceived as unmet expectations following the party’s return to power.
He therefore urged the party leadership to pay greater attention to its grassroots supporters, insisting that they remain critical to maintaining public confidence and securing future electoral victories.
Mr Koomson accused the NPP of being better organised in its communication activities, saying its members consistently worked to push narratives and set the political agenda.
He warned that the NDC risked losing control of the media space if it failed to organise its communication structures and mobilise people capable of responding effectively to opposition claims.
Warning on Internal Divisions
Mr Koomson also criticised what he described as unnecessary internal struggles within the governing party, particularly disagreements over its future leadership and succession.
He said the NDC should concentrate on delivering its mandate and maintaining the confidence Ghanaians have reposed in it, rather than allowing internal political ambitions to overshadow governance.
He cautioned that persistent internal divisions could discourage loyal party supporters from participating in future elections, thereby creating an advantage for the opposition.
Defence of Right to Protest
On the recent demonstration organised by the NPP, Mr Koomson defended the NDC government’s decision to allow the protest, describing it as an important feature of democratic governance.
He recalled that demonstrations organised by the NDC while in opposition were allegedly met with restrictions, police resistance and court injunctions under the previous NPP administration.
Mr Koomson cited the NDC’s demonstration against the proposed sale of SSNIT hotels, recalling that protesters were confronted with tear gas despite not having crossed into the Jubilee House premises.
According to him, the current government’s willingness to allow opposition demonstrations reflects a different approach to democratic participation.
Calls for Evidence-Based Politics
Mr Koomson also questioned the credibility of some allegations raised by the opposition, particularly claims made in Parliament without what he considered sufficient supporting evidence.
He cited the controversy surrounding alleged diplomatic passport dealings, arguing that political accusations must be backed by credible evidence rather than repeated for public consumption.
He maintained that the NDC needed effective communication structures to expose what he described as misleading claims and prevent the public from being influenced by unsubstantiated allegations.
The GFL Secretary-General further argued that the NPP had little moral authority to lecture the current administration on issues relating to cocaine and drug management, given its own record in government.
Final Appeal to NDC
Mr Koomson insisted that the NDC must remain vigilant and resist attempts by the opposition to regain political influence through what he described as destructive propaganda.
He stressed that the responsibility of the governing party was not merely to celebrate its electoral victory, but to work continuously to justify the trust placed in it by Ghanaians.
He urged the party to strengthen its internal structures, resolve its leadership disagreements and maintain an effective grassroots presence to protect its political fortunes.
Mr Koomson warned that the NDC must not lower its guard, insisting that the opposition remained organised and aggressive in its efforts to challenge the government.
Story by Stephen Kwaku Owusu Mintah