Fifi Kwetey blames self-seeking behaviour for wrongdoing across political parties

NDC General Secretary Fifi Fiavi Kwetey says self-seeking behaviour drives wrongdoing across political parties, as people pursue personal gain regardless of their political colours.

Speaking on Joy News’ PM Express on Tuesday, he said changing the party in government would not automatically eliminate misconduct. He argued the real test was how leaders responded when wrongdoing emerged.

“People constantly are thinking about what it is I can get, what can I proffer, where can I cut corners?”

“So it doesn't matter the party[involved].”

Mr Kwetey was responding to a question about an alleged World Cup visa scandal involving the National Sports Authority. The interviewer cited a petition to the CID and the decision to ask the authority’s head to step aside.

He said he had never expected the NDC government to complete its term without facing problems.

“To be honest with you, I didn't expect that we would go four years without any problem. It's not possible.”

He insisted that the distinction between governments should lie in their willingness to confront misconduct.

“But the difference is what leadership does when things of that nature emerge.”

Mr Kwetey accused the NPP of shielding government wrongdoing. He argued that the failure of former President Akufo-Addo’s administration was its response to scandals.

“The problem was never a scandal happening under Akufo-Addo.”

He accused that administration of covering up and defending wrongdoing. He pledged a different approach under the NDC.

“Under us, if it happens, we will deal with you.”

Mr Kwetey said party membership offered no guarantee that individuals would uphold the values they professed.

“As I told you, the party is not made up of angels. It's humans.”

He said accountability must extend to officials at every level, including ministers and chief executives.

“You take a tough decision. You deal with them, no matter who they are, whether they are ministers or they are CEOs, no matter where you deal with them, and that is what makes the difference.”

His message was that the party’s interests would not be sacrificed to protect individuals.

“We are not going to sacrifice the party for you.”