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Fuseini: 2020 Election Was a Mandate for New Governance

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  Published in Politics and Government on Thursday, February 12th 2026 at 3:16 GMT by Ghanaweb.com
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Accra, Ghana - February 12th, 2026 - Former Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Inusah Fuseini, has ignited a crucial conversation within the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the wider Ghanaian political landscape, asserting that the 2020 election results represent more than just a shift in parliamentary power; they are a clear directive from the electorate demanding a fundamentally different approach to governing Ghana. Speaking in a series of interviews this week, Fuseini argued that the substantial votes garnered by the NDC weren't simply a protest against the then-incumbent Akufo-Addo administration, but a positive endorsement of a vision for a nation steered by alternative principles and policies.

Fuseini's comments come at a pivotal moment. While the 2020 election was fiercely contested and ultimately led to a narrow victory for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), the NDC demonstrated significant strength, securing a considerable number of parliamentary seats and a substantial portion of the presidential vote. Analysts at the time noted a rising tide of discontent regarding economic hardship, perceived corruption, and a growing gap between the governing elite and the everyday citizen. However, translating this discontent into effective governance remains the central challenge for the NDC as it prepares to capitalize on the perceived public desire for change.

The core of Fuseini's argument rests on the idea that the electorate has empowered the NDC - not just to oppose, but to govern differently. This isn't a call for incremental adjustments, he suggests, but for a re-evaluation of core governance philosophies. He specifically criticized what he described as the Akufo-Addo administration's top-down, centralized style, alleging it fostered a culture of exclusion and hampered effective problem-solving at the local level. He alluded to concerns regarding the concentration of power within the executive branch and a lack of transparency in key decision-making processes.

But what does "governing differently" actually entail? Experts suggest several key areas where the NDC could differentiate itself. Firstly, a renewed focus on decentralized governance, empowering local assemblies and communities to take ownership of development projects, could address the feeling of disconnect experienced by many Ghanaians. This would require significant investment in capacity building at the local level and a restructuring of resource allocation to ensure equitable distribution.

Secondly, tackling corruption must be more than just rhetoric. The NDC needs to demonstrate a tangible commitment to accountability and transparency, strengthening anti-corruption institutions and enacting stricter laws with robust enforcement mechanisms. A recent report by Transparency International placed Ghana's corruption perception index at a concerning level, highlighting the urgent need for decisive action. The public, increasingly aware through social media and investigative journalism, demands concrete results, not just promises.

Thirdly, the NDC could focus on inclusive economic growth. While the NPP prioritized infrastructure development, critics argued that the benefits weren't widely shared, exacerbating inequalities. The NDC needs to prioritize policies that create jobs, support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and invest in education and skills training to equip Ghanaians for the demands of the 21st-century economy. The focus should shift from purely GDP growth to measures that reflect broader social well-being and equitable distribution of wealth.

The pressure on the NDC is immense. Fuseini's comments serve as a potent reminder that simply being not the NPP is insufficient. The electorate is sophisticated and demands a clear vision, concrete policies, and a demonstrable commitment to addressing the challenges facing the nation. Failure to heed this message risks squandering the opportunity presented by the 2020 election results.

Political analysts are now watching closely to see how the NDC leadership responds to Fuseini's call. While some within the party have publicly supported his assessment, others remain cautious, arguing that a radical departure from established practices could alienate traditional voters. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether the NDC can effectively translate public expectation into a tangible program for change and, ultimately, secure a more decisive victory in the next general election.