Monica Bakiva, a contender for the Deputy Regional Women's Organiser position in the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has urged fellow aspirants to prioritize ideas over insults in their campaigns. As the party prepares for its internal elections, Bakiva emphasized the importance of focusing on leadership qualities, plans, and policies rather than personal attacks. This approach, she believes, will foster a positive and constructive campaign environment.

Bakiva's campaign strategy is centered on challenging policies and actions rather than individuals. She stated that her approach to political communication has always been to address issues without attacking personalities. This principle, she said, will guide her campaign and interactions with fellow aspirants and party members. By doing so, Bakiva aims to promote a culture of respect and civility within the party.

The importance of preserving relationships within the party cannot be overstated, according to Bakiva. She noted that regardless of the election outcome, NDC members will still need to work together. Therefore, it is crucial for aspirants to conduct their campaigns in a manner that maintains party unity and cohesion. This, she believes, will ensure a smooth transition and continued collaboration among party members.

Bakiva also highlighted the significance of humility and character in political leadership. Drawing from her previous experiences, including a narrow loss in an Assembly election by a single vote, she emphasized that leadership should be about service rather than personal gain. This experience reinforced her conviction that character is essential in leadership, as titles and material possessions are temporary.

As Bakiva prepares to contest the Deputy Regional Women's Organiser position, she expressed her willingness to work with the eventual winner, including the incumbent. Her commitment is to the NDC, and she urged fellow aspirants to prioritize the party's interests over personal ambitions. This, she believes, will ensure a united and strong party.

This is not Bakiva's first attempt at the position; she previously contested in the 2022 Upper East regional elections, polling 12 votes. Mariama Anatia Musah won the position with 15 votes. Although nominations had not opened at the time of the interview, Bakiva is determined to make a strong bid for the position. She remains committed to promoting women's participation in politics and encouraging more women to take on leadership roles.

Bakiva's call for an issues-based campaign is a timely reminder for NDC aspirants as the party prepares for its internal elections. Her emphasis on humility, character, and party unity reflects her vision for a positive and constructive campaign environment. As the party moves forward, Bakiva's commitment to promoting women's participation in politics and encouraging more women to take on leadership roles is expected to have a lasting impact.

Key points

  • Monica Bakiva urges NDC aspirants to focus on ideas, not insults, in upcoming internal elections.
  • Bakiva emphasizes the importance of humility and character in political leadership.
  • This is Bakiva's second bid for the Upper East NDC Deputy Women's Organiser position.

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SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.