Secretary-General of the Ghana Federation of Labour (GFL), Abraham Koomson, has cautioned the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) to be mindful of its actions and internal challenges, warning that these could create opportunities for the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) to regain political power.
Speaking on Ahotor FM’s Yepe Ahunu programme with Alexander Nana Dodge in Accra, Mr. Koomson said some developments within the governing party appeared to be creating unnecessary political difficulties for the government. He questioned whether some of the challenges were the result of inexperience or poor political judgement, stressing that the NDC must consider the long-term interests of both the party and the country.
Mr. Koomson, who has lived in Tema since 1971, also expressed concern about redevelopment and demolition exercises in parts of the Tema area. He called for greater engagement with residents and affected persons before structures are demolished, arguing that government agencies should first explore ways of helping people regularise their activities where possible.
He said although some structures may be inappropriate or create an eyesore, demolition should not always be the first option. He urged town planners, engineers and other technical officers to engage affected residents, explain the requirements and assist them to put the necessary processes in place.
Mr. Koomson also called for the organisation of town-hall meetings to give residents the opportunity to understand government plans for their communities and participate in discussions on redevelopment projects that may affect them.
On government appointments, he criticised what he described as the abrupt termination of some ministerial appointments, arguing that officials should first be engaged and given an opportunity to respond to concerns about their performance.
He questioned whether some officials were genuinely incompetent or were facing challenges that could be addressed through support, supervision and engagement. According to him, a more constructive approach would be for authorities to identify shortcomings, engage the affected ministers or government appointees and work with them to improve their performance.
Mr. Koomson further urged the NDC to strengthen its grassroots communication, particularly by supporting communicators who can effectively explain government policies and programmes to ordinary citizens.
He cited Yawza as one of the individuals he believes could help the party improve its communication and strengthen its connection with the grassroots. He noted that although some educated Ghanaians may understand the political weaknesses of the NPP, the opposition could still exploit gaps in the NDC’s grassroots communication to win public support.
Mr. Koomson therefore urged the governing party not to become complacent, warning that political setbacks can emerge quickly when a government fails to communicate effectively and respond to concerns from citizens.
He stressed that his concerns were not motivated by personal political interests, but by his desire to see Ghana develop, and urged the NDC to remain vigilant, strengthen its grassroots structures and address internal challenges before they become major political liabilities.
Story by Stephen Owusu Mintah
