NDC directs government appointees to resign before contesting party elections

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has issued a clear directive requiring party members who hold government-appointed positions to resign if they wish to contest internal party elections. The announcement was made by the party’s General Secretary, Fiifi Fiavi Kwetey, during a press briefing on Thursday, 29th January 2026. The move is aimed at promoting fairness, eliminating conflicts of interest, and ensuring a level playing field for all aspirants.

Kwetey explained that the directive applies to full-time government appointees, including ministers, deputy ministers, chief executive officers, managing directors, their deputies, and metropolitan, municipal, and district chief executives. He clarified that board chairpersons and members are exempt, as they are not full-time employees.

The General Secretary outlined staggered resignation deadlines based on the level of the contest. Those seeking to contest at the constituency level must resign by April 2026, aspirants for regional positions must resign by May 2026, and those aiming for national leadership roles must resign by June 2026.

“Any person seeking to contest for a party position who currently holds an office to which he or she was appointed by the President or the government must resign from that office at least six clear months before filing nomination forms. Those intending to contest at the constituency level shall resign by April 2026, those intending to contest at the regional level shall resign by May 2026, and those intending to contest at the national level shall resign by June 2026.

“It is an issue of reducing the level of greed. If you want to work for the Party, you leave your position in government. You can’t have one leg here, and another there… These provisions are firm, constitutional, and we will enforce them without exception.”

The directive forms part of the NDC’s broader strategy to enhance internal discipline, credibility, and transparency as the party moves towards its National Delegates Congress and prepares for the 2028 general elections.

By Bawa Musah