Afanyi Dadzie writes: Why criticising 'neutral' appointments misses the bigger picture in nation-building

I've lost track of the many familiar faces in the NDC government.

Interestingly, some appointees were thought to support the NPP. Yet, they are now serving under the current administration.

Critics may call this hypocrisy. They might argue these individuals were never neutral and only sought their own interests within the NDC.

However, politics is about numbers and strategy. Nation-building requires quality human resources to achieve national goals.

If talent comes from so-called neutrals, that’s acceptable.

The Constitution does not require a party card for public office. If individuals can contribute meaningful ideas, they should be included in the system.

The other party had opportunities to engage these individuals too. Perhaps they didn’t have space or deemed them unsuitable. If someone else finds them worthy, should they decline due to partisan opinions?

Every skill in this country is a national asset, not just for party loyalists. A floating voter’s ballot helps win elections, but their intellect is vital for development too.

Yes, politicians may use strategic appointments to silence critics at times. But are all appointments made solely for that reason? The NPP may also use similar strategies if they return to power.

Our politics has shifted away from ideological convictions long ago. Many choose political alignments based on practical considerations today.

This situation shows a deliberate rebranding by the NDC. They aim to attract middle-class Ghanaians, academics, and technocrats. The opposition NPP must recognize and counter this quickly.

New voices continue to emerge and contribute meaningfully from the sidelines. The idea that critical voices will disappear when appointed is incorrect.

At every moment, new voices rise because many haven’t yet stepped into the spotlight or challenged themselves.

Many leaders of Civil Society Organizations today weren’t active in the 2000s. Some older figures have retired or taken roles in past governments while others carry on their work.

There will never be a shortage of knowledge just because some critical voices hold official positions. The national conversation is larger than any individual; fresh voices will always keep it alive.

It’s time to rethink what neutrality, competence, and national service truly mean.

The writer is Ebenezer Afanyi Dadzie, a Broadcast Journalist with Multimedia Group.

Disclaimer: These views are his own and do not represent his organization.