"Ghana First, NDC Second": Fifi Kwetey Urges Radical Shift in Party Culture and National Loyalty

The General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, has issued a stern call for a fundamental transformation within his party, arguing that the NDC must uphold significantly higher moral and political standards to lead Ghana’s proposed "reset" agenda effectively. Speaking in a series of interviews on Joy News, Kwetey emphasized that the party cannot build public trust by simply criticizing the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) while mirroring its perceived flaws. He stressed that "business as usual" must end within the NDC first, demanding an end to internal hypocrisy and a return to the party’s core values to ensure the success of any national reform initiative.

Central to Kwetey’s vision is a rigid hierarchy of loyalty: "Ghana first, NDC second, me last." He criticized a growing trend among political leaders who prioritize individual gain and personal ambition over collective progress. According to Kwetey, the strength of the nation lies in placing the national interest above party loyalty. He warned that the disconnect between leadership and the grassroots often stems from leaders pursuing selfish objectives, whereas the grassroots more clearly understand the need for collective action. This "hardline loyalty doctrine" is presented as a necessary corrective to resolve internal tensions and align the party with the genuine needs of the country.

Kwetey further observed a significant shift in the Ghanaian electorate, asserting that voters are no longer "gullible" or easily swayed by empty, short-term promises. He noted that recent elections demonstrate a more discerning public that seeks sustainable, long-term solutions and accountability from its leaders. This evolution in voter mindset serves as a warning to politicians who underestimate the intelligence of the populace. By setting a tougher standard, Kwetey believes the NDC can provide a better example for Ghana’s youth, fostering a legacy of principled leadership rather than one of opportunism.

While acknowledging that his advocacy for internal reform and strict adherence to values might be unpopular or even jeopardize his own political future, Kwetey expressed a readiness to sacrifice his personal ambitions. He insisted that while political leadership is temporary, the enduring values of the party must be preserved to achieve a true national transformation. For Kwetey, the ultimate goal is not merely to win power but to ensure that the party is internally prepared to exercise that power in a way that truly serves the Ghanaian people, regardless of the personal cost to its leaders.