Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, the General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has outlined the party's firm stance on accountability and internal discipline, reflecting President John Mahama's commitment to restoring integrity in public office. His statements cover stern warnings to ministers regarding corruption, strictures on parliamentary leadership concerning policy decisions, and strong opinions on the leadership of the Electoral Commission.

President John Mahama has issued an unequivocal warning to his ministers: any involvement in a scandal will result in swift and severe consequences, with no protection from either the presidency or the party. Mr. Kwetey confirmed this message, stating that the party solidly stands behind the President in enforcing this zero-tolerance policy. Ministers, he noted, were clearly informed that any wrongdoing would not be tolerated, and the party would not intervene to shield those who bring scandal to the government. This means facing the full weight of the law, including due process, court proceedings, and potential imprisonment, without political interference.

The President's directive is part of a broader effort to re-establish discipline, accountability, and integrity within public office, addressing long-standing public concerns about corruption. Mr. Kwetey suggested that this firm posture explains the relative absence of scandals in the current government, as every official understands that they are on their own if implicated in wrongdoing. President Mahama even reinforced this message with humor, reportedly telling ministers not to bother calling for help if they get into trouble, as their calls would not be picked up.

Beyond ministerial conduct, Mr. Kwetey also addressed internal party discipline, specifically cautioning NDC Majority leaders in Parliament against making significant decisions without proper consultation. He highlighted a recent controversy surrounding a private member’s bill, sponsored by the Majority Leader and Majority Chief Whip, which sought to scrap the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP).

Mr. Kwetey stressed that while the Majority Leader and Chief Whip are doing a commendable job, they are not autonomous and must operate as part of the larger party structure. He confirmed that the party leadership was not consulted before the OSP bill was introduced, warning that such unilateral actions undermine internal coordination and risk forcing the President into public reversals. He urged them to "work as an organ" and ensure the party is consulted on all major decisions.

Dismissing claims of a party conspiracy to abolish the OSP, Mr. Kwetey clarified that the bill's withdrawal was a direct result of presidential intervention, not a coordinated anti-corruption agenda. He emphasized that future situations where the President is compelled to publicly overrule party members must be avoided. A specific caution was issued to the Chief Whip, who sometimes tends to hasten things without proper consultation.

Furthermore, Mr. Kwetey commented on the leadership of the Electoral Commission (EC) amidst petitions challenging the conduct of its Chairperson and deputies. While acknowledging that due process must be followed, he argued that if the allegations against them are substantiated, the EC leadership would have no justification to remain in office. He characterized the alleged wrongdoing as the "biggest crime" in any democracy, as it constitutes a direct assault on citizens' fundamental right to representation.

Mr. Kwetey insisted that the calls for the removal of the EC Chairperson and deputies are not driven by partisan NDC interests but reflect a widespread sentiment among the Ghanaian populace. He expressed confidence that an independent survey would reveal that a vast majority of Ghanaians would also want them gone, emphasizing that the issue transcends party lines and concerns the integrity of Ghana's democracy.