NDC Youth Organizer Raises Alarm Over Proposed Increase in Party Filing Fees, Threatens Demonstration

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The Dean of Youth Organizers for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Eastern Region, Oscar Kennedy Nyarko, has strongly criticised what he describes as the growing monetisation of leadership positions within the party, warning that the development could undermine the NDC's social democratic principles.


In a statement addressed to party members and supporters, Mr. Nyarko expressed concern over what he believes is an excessive increase in filing fees for internal party elections. According to him, the proposed fees risk making leadership positions accessible only to wealthy individuals rather than competent and dedicated party members.


He argued that the NDC, which prides itself on its social democratic ideology, should not allow financial strength to become the determining factor for contesting party positions. He questioned why party leaders have remained silent over what he described as a worrying trend that could gradually erode the party's founding philosophy.


Mr. Nyarko claimed that filing fees have seen a significant increase compared to the 2022 internal elections. He cited the example of the constituency chairman position, alleging that the fee has risen from GH¢1,000 in 2022 to GH¢5,000, while aspiring regional chairmen are expected to pay GH¢80,000 or more to contest. He maintained that similar increases have affected other executive positions.


According to him, if the current trend continues, the future of the party could be threatened, as committed members without financial resources may be discouraged from offering themselves for leadership roles.


Mr. Nyarko further disclosed that he and like-minded party members intend to organise a demonstration to protest the proposed filing fees, describing them as unacceptable and contrary to the values upon which the NDC was founded. He called on party faithful to support the planned action to safeguard the party's democratic ideals.


He concluded his statement by urging members to remain vigilant and actively participate in efforts to preserve the NDC's principles, ending with the party's popular slogan, "Eyes Are Watching. Ayaataaa! Ayaatuuu!"

Credit: Nana Kwasi Asare 

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