I would accept a government appointment if it’s not full-time – Fifi Kwetey

National Democratic Congress (NDC) General Secretary Fifi Fiavi Kwetey says he would accept a government appointment if it isn't full-time.

But he says holding no government position has been liberating as it lets him focus on the party and speak freely without worrying about reactions from the presidency or government.

Speaking on Joy News’ PM Express on Tuesday, Mr Kwetey was asked whether he would have accepted an appointment if offered.

“Why not? I wouldn't have minded because as long as it's not a full-time position,” he said.

Mr Kwetey said he had not actively sought a government role. His priority was the party’s return to power and his responsibilities as General Secretary.

“There are so many people who do not have any position. I have a position as a general secretary. It gives me liberty to be able to fully concentrate also on the party.”

He said general secretaries had typically held government appointments, particularly as board chairs, across the two main political parties.

That had not been his experience. “My national chairman has it. I don't.”

Mr Kwetey argued that combining the party role with a board chairmanship could create conflicting lines of authority.

As General Secretary, he explained, he serves as the party’s chief executive and manages its interface with government. A board chairmanship would also place him under a minister.

“But that minister actually is supposed to effectively be reporting to you as general secretary. So it's a bit of a conundrum itself on its own, you know.”

For him, not having a government appointment gives him room to address issues without worrying whether his comments will please those in power.

“Is somebody happy in government? Is somebody happy at the presidency?”

“It's not my consideration. I do what I believe to be right for party, and it's fine.”

He also urged party members to work for the NDC’s strength out of conviction.

“That we need to encourage a lot more people in the party to do what they do fundamentally because they want the party to be strong.”