The former health minister and Director of the International Relations Directorate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Mr. Alex Segbefia Esq. has addressed concerns about his deep involvement in Ghana’s political landscape, health ministry, and the role of the EC during elections.
Mr. Segbefia began by sharing insights on various topics, including the upcoming elections, challenges within the Electoral Commission (EC), and his tenure as Health Minister. Mr. Segbefia’s enthusiasm for the upcoming general elections was palpable. With only six months left, he described the period as full of activity, adding that he was “getting into excitement mode.” Mr. Segbefia’s optimism for the NDC’s chances in the elections was evident, as he confidently stated;
“We are not leaving any stone unturned. We’re not being in any way complacent.”
Mr. Alex Segbefia Esq. the former minister of health
Despite acknowledging the capabilities of their political opponents, Mr. Segbefia expressed quiet confidence, emphasizing that the NDC would seize the moment.
“We are fully aware of our opponents and what they are capable of, but we are quietly confident that, the moment is ours.’’
Mr. Alex Segbefia Esq. the former minister of health
Challenges with the Electoral Commission: “Mistrust Deepening”
A significant portion of Mr. Segbefia’s discussion focused on the challenges and mistrust between the opposition and the Electoral Commission. Mr. Segbefia pointed out that, opposition parties historically have had issues with the EC, noting, “The opposition has always had issues with the EC.” Mr. Segbefia acknowledged that the Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) was created to resolve these issues, but in recent years, the tension has intensified. According to Mr. Segbefia, this heightened tension is partly due to the rigidity of the current EC leadership. Mr. Segbefia criticized the EC for its handling of various electoral processes, particularly during the 2020 elections. He remarked,
“We have never had an election, where the EC has come and said, by the way, the figures I brought out were not correct.”
Mr. Alex Segbefia Esq. the former minister of health
This unprecedented revision of election results left a “bitter taste” for the opposition, especially considering the closeness of the race. Mr. Segbefia added, “You had all the ingredients of mistrust in the way the results came out.” Mr. Segbefia raised concerns about the appointment of partisan individuals to the EC.
“Never in our history have we had appointments of clearly partisan, people as electoral commission.”
Mr. Alex Segbefia Esq. the former minister of health
This situation, coupled with issues such as registration arithmetic problems, has contributed to the deepening mistrust. However, Mr. Segbefia emphasized the NDC’s commitment to democracy, stating, “We are democrats. So, ours is to make the noise and continue to make the noise till we finish voting.” When asked whether the NDC managed the economy better than the current New Patriotic Party (NPP) government, Mr. Segbefia did not hesitate to express his opinion. He boldly claimed. “100 times better.” He argued that there is no comparison.
“When it comes to a comparison between John Mahama and Nana-Addo, they should take their whole 8 years, and we shall take John Mahama’s 4[years]. They don’t come close.”
Mr. Alex Segbefia Esq. the former minister of health
This statement reflects the NDC’s continued critique of the NPP government’s handling of the economy, which has been a central theme in their political messaging.
Reflecting on His Tenure as Health Minister: “A Very Sober Job”
Moreover, Mr. Segbefia also shared reflections on his time as the Minister of Health, describing the role as “a very sober job.” He explained that the position comes with many responsibilities, some of which people do not fully comprehend. Mr. Segbefia recalled the tragic June 3rd disaster, where heavy rains and a fire outbreak led to numerous casualties. Mr. Segbefia recounted his experience visiting hospitals and morgues to ensure that those injured and deceased were properly cared for. Mr. Segbefia shared a poignant memory from that night.
“I had to go into the morgue and there were, I think at the time, 30 or so odd, people who had been burnt… The look of shock remained.”
Mr. Alex Segbefia Esq. the former minister of health
This somber experience highlighted the emotional toll of being a Health Minister, as he had to navigate grief and loss while ensuring the well-being of the victims. Mr. Segbefia highlighted that, the joy that comes with the job, particularly when healthcare services are extended to remote areas. He described how Onyaa Do Vans services brought relief to people in villages with different ailments. “Mothers are thanking the doctors and whatnot,” he shared, expressing the fulfillment that comes with helping people in need.
Mr. Segbefia emphasized that his tenure also involved the day-to-day challenges of running a ministry. Reflecting on his career, he noted that he had the fortune of working in three spheres: the presidency, a ministry he described as “the best in Ghana,” and one of the worst ministries in Ghana. This unique experience has shaped his perspective on governance and public service. Mr. Segbefia’s reflections provide valuable insights into his political journey, the challenges within Ghana’s electoral system, and his experiences as a Health Minister.
Mr. Segbefia’s confidence in the NDC’s prospects for the upcoming elections, coupled with his critique of the EC and the NPP government, underscored his continued commitment to Ghana’s political landscape. Through his diverse roles, Mr. Segbefia has gained a deep understanding of the complexities of governance, and his experiences continue to inform his contributions to the NDC’s efforts for the future.
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