Dr. Benjamin Danso, an aspiring chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in Greater Accra, has vowed to prioritize the welfare of party members and grassroots supporters if elected. He made this statement on the Yepe Ahunu political show with Nana Dogbe on Ahotor 92.3 FM. Dr. Danso's decision to contest the regional chairmanship was informed by research and his experience as a former constituency chairman.
According to Dr. Danso, his research shows that opposition parties rarely win elections solely on their own strength, but often benefit when an incumbent government loses touch with the people. He cited the 2016 election, where the NDC lost despite undertaking developmental projects such as the Kejetia Market, the Kasoa Interchange, and the E-Blocks. Dr. Danso argued that infrastructure alone cannot guarantee electoral victory if the party fails to connect with the people.
Dr. Danso proposed the "3Ps" approach—projects, programmes, and people—which he believes is essential for the party's progress. He stated that the party has over the years relegated the people factor, with the welfare of grassroots supporters receiving insufficient attention after electoral victories. A well-motivated party base, according to Dr. Danso, does not need to be persuaded to campaign or speak about the party's achievements.
Dr. Danso emphasized the importance of unity within the party in the region, citing divisions and upcoming court appearances of the current regional chairman and youth organizer on November 18. He expressed concern that a party without unity cannot make progress. As a leader, Dr. Danso's priority is the welfare of party members, which he has been researching for about a year.
Dr. Danso shared his experience as chairman of the Krowor Constituency, where he encountered constituents approaching him late at night seeking support for their children's education, electricity credits, or food. He believes that a leader who does not understand the realities of the constituency cannot effectively respond to the needs of the people.
To illustrate his point, Dr. Danso shared a story about a ship that broke down at the Tema Port, which was fixed by a young man with only a chisel and hammer. The young man charged one million dollars for his services, explaining that the charge reflected his understanding of the problem. Dr. Danso believes that leadership requires an understanding of people's pain.
Dr. Danso, who is number four on the ballot, said the NDC cannot continue with the same approach and expect different results. He urged party members to support a leadership that places the welfare of grassroots supporters at the center of party organization and political mobilization. Dr. Danso also disclosed that he had decided to pay the filing fees of about 900 candidates contesting various positions within the party.
Key points
- Dr. Benjamin Danso pledges to prioritize grassroots welfare as NDC chairman if elected.
