Don't Neglect the Grassroots: A Call to Action from Joshua Akamba
In a powerful message to the National Democratic Congress (NDC) appointees, Joshua Akamba, the former National Organiser, has issued a stark warning against neglecting the party's grassroots supporters. Akamba's call to action highlights the importance of maintaining a strong local base for the party's stability and unity.
The former organiser emphasised the urgent need for appointees to focus on engaging and supporting the party's grassroots. He pointed out that many loyal party members feel disappointed and hopeless due to officials' lack of accessibility and responsiveness. Akamba alleged that some officials have blocked communication, denied access, and ignored the concerns of these grassroots supporters.
According to Akamba, this neglect was a significant factor in the party's previous electoral defeat to the New Patriotic Party (NPP). He argued that when the grassroots feel abandoned, their motivation to work and campaign for the party diminishes.
Speaking on the programme 'As It Is in Ghana' on Rainbow Radio, Akamba shared his principled decision to prioritise strengthening the party's base. He warned that the party will soon take action against appointees who refuse to engage with the grassroots after assuming office.
Akamba stressed that the party's strength is being undermined by officials who have become inaccessible. He recalled the 2016 election, where the lack of grassroots mobilisation led to a difficult post-election period and contributed to the party's defeat. Akamba emphasised that many grassroots supporters worked tirelessly to help the party regain power, often on empty stomachs.
"I can confidently say that I did my best as a party leader to mobilise the grassroots without any funding from the party," Akamba stated. "Many of us who are now appointees should remember the struggle and challenges we faced. They should treat the grassroots with respect."
Akamba reminded those in power that they, too, emerged from the grassroots and should never lose sight of their origins. He advised appointees to be transparent with supporters about the government's challenges rather than ignoring them.
"My advice to our appointees is to engage the grassroots and explain the challenges they are facing," Akamba said. "It is not good to ignore them. It is better to engage them and let them know what we are confronted with."
Akamba also highlighted the NDC's commitment to restoring hope and addressing the crisis left behind by the NPP. He urged party members to remain resilient and trust the government's efforts to stabilise the country.
"Do not lose hope. Remain strong and trust the government to stabilise this country," Akamba said. "We can only console and encourage them. There is no government like the NDC. But if we begin to listen to the lies of the NPP, it will set us back."
In a direct appeal to party members, Akamba emphasised the importance of engaging with the grassroots, which includes professors, lawyers, and other senior officials, not just party members.
