Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, the General Secretary of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), has conveyed a sense of cautious optimism regarding the Electoral Commission’s (EC) recent efforts to enhance its engagement with political parties. While acknowledging some improvements in the EC’s approach, Kwetey remains cautiously hopeful, recognising the need for further transparency and collaboration to ensure fair and credible elections. His comments highlight the importance of continued dialogue between the EC and political stakeholders, as the commission prepares for upcoming elections in Ghana. Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, the General Secretary of the NDC, expressed that despite the Electoral Commission’s (EC) improved engagement with political parties, the Commission’s history of perceived bias has left a “cloud of suspicion” hanging over its actions. Speaking on Joy News’ PM Express on Monday, December 2, Kwetey discussed the EC’s relationship with political stakeholders under the leadership of Jean Mensa. He emphasised that the NDC remains wary due to past controversies and challenges with the EC, which have led to concerns about its impartiality.
Kwetey also reflected on the NDC’s stance as it approaches the 2024 elections, signalling that while there may be some positive changes, the party continues to monitor the situation closely and demands greater transparency to ensure fairness in the electoral process. The NDC’s position remains one of cautious engagement with the EC, focusing on ensuring that the upcoming elections are credible and free from bias.
In response to comments regarding the Electoral Commission’s (EC) openness and transparency, Fifi Fiavi Kwetey acknowledged some progress in the EC’s engagement with political parties. However, he emphasized that trust in the Commission remains fragile, citing the historical concerns of bias and lack of transparency. Kwetey clarified, “I’ve not said that they have refused to listen to our concerns,” but reiterated that while the EC has made some improvements, the NDC’s scepticism remains due to the past issues that continue to cloud their confidence in the Commission’s impartiality. The NDC, therefore, remains cautious and committed to ensuring that the upcoming elections are conducted fairly and without bias. Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, the General Secretary of the NDC, further explained the party’s cautious stance by referencing the “cloud of suspicion” that has surrounded the Electoral Commission (EC) since Jean Mensa’s leadership began. He pointed out that the EC’s actions, particularly during the 2020 election, have fueled distrust. Kwetey emphasized that the Commission’s attitude, especially after the election and its perceived intransigence in handling issues that arose, has made it difficult for the NDC to fully trust the EC. He noted that the “kind of cloud of suspicion” created by these events continues to impact the party’s confidence, despite any improvements in the EC’s recent engagement with political parties.
Fifi Fiavi Kwetey highlighted the contentious 2020 general elections and the incidents that followed as key reasons for the NDC’s ongoing skepticism toward the Electoral Commission (EC). He pointed out that the EC’s initial resistance to addressing concerns from political parties contributed to the mistrust. It was only after the intervention of mediators like the Peace Council that progress was made. Kwetey recounted how the Peace Council facilitated a crucial meeting that led to the establishment of the Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC), which now serves as a platform for bringing political parties together to discuss electoral matters. He stressed that this mediation was necessary to break the deadlock and ensure that political parties had a seat at the table in the decision-making process regarding the election. While Fifi Fiavi Kwetey acknowledged some improvement in the Electoral Commission’s (EC) openness, he reaffirmed that the NDC and others remain cautious due to the Commission’s history, particularly in its appointments and decisions. He conceded, “Over the period, there has been some improvement, I must admit,” but emphasized that the past actions of the EC, especially its appointments, have created a climate of suspicion. Kwetey explained that these actions have led many to remain vigilant, always “keeping their eyes wide open.”
The legislator likened the NDC’s preparation for the 2024 elections to a legendary Ghanaian boxing match, underscoring the need for constant vigilance and readiness to handle any unforeseen developments or challenges. This comparison highlights the NDC’s commitment to staying alert and prepared, ensuring they are not caught off guard by any potential surprises in the electoral process.
Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, drawing a parallel to Ghana’s legendary boxing champion Azumah Nelson, emphasized the NDC’s approach to the 2024 elections with “eyes wide open.” He stated, “We are approaching this with our eyes wide open, typically like Azumah [Nelson],” referencing the iconic boxer’s resilience and focus. Kwetey compared the NDC’s approach to a high-stakes match, saying, “We are entering into this like a finish, Azumah finish round two,” highlighting the party’s determination and readiness to fight for victory without relying on any favours from the Electoral Commission or other external forces.
He further underscored the NDC’s emphasis on self-reliance and resolve, warning, “We never know what it feels that [the EC] may decide to pull off in the final minute.” Kwetey concluded by stressing that the party is preparing for every possible scenario, underscoring their commitment to be ready for any challenges that may arise, no matter the circumstances.
Despite his criticisms, Fifi Fiavi Kwetey struck a cautiously hopeful tone about the future of the electoral process. He clarified, “We’re not entering this process with blind trust, but with a strong resolve.” Kwetey emphasized that while the NDC remains wary, they are determined and focused on ensuring a fair outcome. He also stressed that for the Electoral Commission (EC) to shed the “cloud of suspicion” hanging over it, the EC must demonstrate true impartiality. His statement reflected the party’s readiness to engage in the process while holding the EC accountable for its actions moving forward.
