The Ashanti Regional Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Augustus Andrew Nana Akwasi, has formally appealed to the party’s national leadership to grant a waiver for branch executives required to pay four years of backdated dues and nomination fees before contesting internal positions.
In a proposal addressed to the National Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketia and the General Secretary, Fiifi Fiavi Kwetey in the media, Nana Akwasi argued that the current requirement places an undue financial burden on grassroots officials, many of whom are not beneficiaries of government appointments or financial incentives.
He is therefore urging the leadership to reduce the obligation from four years to a single year to enable broader participation in the party’s internal electoral processes.
According to him, easing the requirement would encourage inclusivity and strengthen grassroots engagement ahead of future political activities.
“Most of these executives have remained committed to the party without any form of state support. It is only fair that the financial barriers to contesting positions are reconsidered,” he indicated.
However, the existing policy, introduced by the party’s national leadership, is intended to promote financial discipline and commitment among members.
Party officials have previously explained that the payment of dues ensures a steady revenue stream to support party operations, including administrative activities, mobilization efforts, and campaign financing. It also serves as a measure of loyalty and active participation within the party structure.
The leadership maintains that consistent dues payment reinforces accountability and helps sustain the party’s organizational framework at all levels.
Nonetheless, internal discussions are expected to weigh these considerations against concerns about accessibility and fairness for grassroots members.
The proposal by the Ashanti Regional Chairman is likely to spark broader debate within the party as it prepares for upcoming internal elections.
