NDC chairman outlines evolution of party's leadership selection system

Johnson Asiedu Nketia, National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress, traced the evolution of the party's internal leadership selection process, highlighting reforms aimed at promoting inclusivity and internal democracy, speaking on a Lambussie-based radio station. Mr. Asiedu Nketia explained that in the early years of the party, national executives were selected through a consensus-building approach involving select groups. He said, "There were two groups that would go into conclave and select national executives based on certain formulas, including regional and gender balance."

Mr. Asiedu Nketia noted that the system was effective during the party's formative years from 1992 to 2000, as it helped maintain unity and cohesion. He explained that the party later undertook a major reorganisation, which led to the abandonment of that approach in favour of a more open and competitive system, stating, "The recommendation was that we scrap that method and open the space for people to file and contest." Subsequent reforms introduced the "one man, one position" policy, which prevents individuals from holding both party and government positions simultaneously.

This system has guided the party's operations for years, particularly up to 2016, and helped ensure clarity in roles and responsibilities. The earlier structure also allowed flexibility where party members appointed to government roles could step aside for their deputies to take over party responsibilities.