NPP and NDC logo
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) are two major political parties in Ghana, each with its own vision and strategies for the nation's development.
However, it's not uncommon to hear the statement, "NPP and NDC are all the same." This assertion often arises from NPP supporters who are frustrated or disillusioned by the ineptitude, cluelessness, and abysmal performance of Nana Addo/Bawumia’s government. This comparison constitutes a "false equivalence." The colossal failures, malfeasance, greed, arrogance, and cluelessness of the NPP government should never be equated to the NDC’s stellar performance in government because it doesn't hold up under scrutiny.
Prof. Frimpong Boateng has said that credible economists have told him that “it will take 30 years to bring Ghana’s economy destroyed by Akufo-Addo and Bawumia back to any semblance of recovery.”.
The NDC’s performance in office has been uniquely suited for Ghana's development and should not be considered on the same level as the treacherous NPP. Such comparisons are misleading due to differences in context, priorities, the posturing of political appointees, and many others.
Understanding False Equivalence:
"False equivalence" occurs when two elements are described as being similar or identical, despite fundamental differences that make the comparison invalid. In the context of Ghanaian politics, this often manifests in discussions where the colossal failures of the NPP are compared with the NDC without merit. It is essential to examine the NDC’s record and approach in key areas such as variance in policy priorities, significant support for the cocoa industry, infrastructure development, human development, and governance.
Variance in Policy Priorities:
The NPP and the NDC have distinct ideological underpinnings, which shape their policy priorities differently. The NPP has traditionally focused on free-market policies, emphasizing stone-age property-owning democracy as a pathway to economic growth. It aligns itself with the center-right on the political spectrum. In line with this, party apparatchiks and government appointees often engage in free-for-all grabbing of state lands and other state-owned properties for themselves.
Even as we speak, intercepted documents indicate that SSNIT is far ahead in
selling a controlling 60% stake in six of its hotels to Hon. Bryan Acheampong, the MP for Abetifi and minister for food and agriculture. In contrast, the NDC has often prioritized social equity and welfare programs, aiming to expand access to healthcare and education. It leans towards the center-left, advocating for policies that prioritize equitable distribution of resources and state-led development. These differing priorities result in different types of government expenditures and policy outcomes.
Significant Support for Cocoa Industry:
The cocoa sector is a cornerstone of Ghana's economy, and the NDC has historically placed a significant emphasis on supporting this industry. During its terms in office, the NDC has always made concerted efforts and implemented policies aimed at boosting production, improving the livelihoods of farmers, and enhancing the overall value chain. These policies include subsidies for fertilizers and pesticides, better farming practices through agricultural extension services, and initiatives to secure higher market prices.
The NDC government, under John Mahama, initiated the Cocoa Roads Improvement Program to enhance the infrastructure in cocoa-growing areas, facilitate the transportation of cocoa beans, and improve access to markets. The Mahama administration also launched initiatives to encourage the youth to engage in cocoa farming by providing training and support to young farmers to boost cocoa production.
Such interventions have been critical in maintaining cocoa as a major export commodity, which is vital for Ghana's economic stability and growth. The NDC government also supports the poultry industry through the production of poultry feed locally to reduce dependency on imports and lower costs for poultry farmers. Others are improved veterinary services, infrastructure development, import regulation, and training and capacity building.
On the contrary, the overall management of the cocoa sector under the NPP has been a calamity with a detrimental impact on the livelihoods of cocoa farmers. The combination of low farm-gate prices, a lack of incentives, and financial mismanagement at the cocoa farm resulting in declining production have eroded the cocoa farmers’ incomes and purchasing power, leading to worsening living conditions. Reports indicate substantial financial losses year after year since 2017 till date, despite high international cocoa prices. This mismanagement includes questionable expenditures and increasing administrative costs, which have further strained the sector.
Construction of Economic and Social Infrastructure:
Infrastructure development is another area where the NDC has demonstrated considerable commitment. The party’s approach has often been holistic, targeting not just economic infrastructure like roads and energy but also social infrastructure, including hospitals, schools, the internet, and water facilities. The NDC's record of expanding access to social amenities is seen as directly contributing to improving quality of life and stimulating local economies. This comprehensive infrastructure strategy is pivotal for sustainable development and sets a foundation that supports both current needs and future growth.
Human Development Initiatives:
Human development is a multidimensional endeavor, encompassing education, healthcare, and social welfare. The NDC has shown a strong dedication to these areas, arguing that investing in people is the best investment a country can make. Policies under NDC governance have often prioritized expanding access to education through programs like the progressively free secondary education policy and investing in healthcare through the construction of more accessible community clinics and hospitals.
These initiatives are designed to ensure that all Ghanaians, regardless of their economic status, have opportunities to improve their personal and collective well-being. It is often observed that the NPP prioritizes the interests and well-being of its members over the general welfare of all Ghanaians. While political allegiance and party loyalty are crucial aspects of any political organization, it is imperative that the government place equal importance on the needs and aspirations of every citizen, regardless of their political affiliation.
A government's primary responsibility is to ensure holistic development
and prosperity of the entire nation, creating an inclusive environment where every Ghanaian can thrive. Unfortunately, the NPP's focus on serving its members has frequently overshadowed the broader, more inclusive approach necessary for the country's overall progress and unity.
Modesty in Governance:
Governance under the NDC has been marked by a stated commitment to modesty and
transparency, which is in vast contrast with the NPP's approach. This includes measures to combat corruption, a more consultative approach with stakeholders, and efforts to ensure that government spending is aligned with national priorities rather than partisan interests. The NDC’s focus on modesty in governance is often highlighted as a moral compass guiding its political and economic policies.
On the contrary, the NPP has always demonstrated opulence during its time in power through various projects, lifestyle choices of some members, and expenditures. For example, the hiring of private jets for presidential travel by President Akufo-Addo has had several negative impacts on the Ghanaian economy, primarily through increased government expenditure, higher public debt, opportunity costs, inflationary pressures, and reduced investor confidence. It has also contributed to political and social tensions, further complicating the
economic landscape.
Conclusion: The Case AgainstFalse "False Equivalence":
Labeling the NDC and the NPP as being the same is false and a calculated attempt to paint the NDC with the same brush as the NPP. There are distinct philosophies and outcomes associated with their governance. The NDC’s attention to the cocoa industry, comprehensive infrastructure development, emphasis on human development, and commitment to modest governance are not merely policy choices but reflect a fundamentally different approach to national development.
These factors collectively make the NDC the best choice for Ghana's future
because it is not just another political option but a necessary leader on the path toward sustainable and inclusive development. Disgruntled NPP supporters should engage in constructive criticism and hold their leaders accountable rather than resort to blanket statements that obscure the unique contributions of the NDC to our nation’s development. The claim that both parties are the same allows them to deflect from the shortcomings and controversies of their own party, avoiding the uncomfortable admission that the NDC's policies and initiatives have, in various areas, contributed more significantly to the nation's progress and prosperity.
