The Executive Director of the Africa Institute of Strategic Studies and lecturer, Dr Jonathan Asante Otchere, has questioned the decision to appoint Cecilia Abena Dapaah as chairperson of the New Patriotic Party’s vetting committee. He argued that although she brings considerable experience to the assignment, the choice could create unavoidable confrontation with her as candidates appear before the nine member committee.
Dr Asante Otchere explained that the issue centres largely on public perception and the ability of the committee chair to command confidence from all contenders. He suggested that candidates could use previous controversies surrounding Mrs Dapaah to challenge her credibility during the vetting process.
The lecturer acknowledged that Mrs Dapaah has extensive experience within the NPP and has served the party in various capacities over the years. He nevertheless argued that the party could have selected another experienced woman to perform the role while avoiding the potential distractions attached to the appointment.
“It is not good because you need to bear in mind how trustworthy she will be, as it were, as far as those who are being vetted are concerned.”
Dr Jonathan Asante Otchere
According to Dr Asante Otchere, the Office of the Special Prosecutor’s investigations into Mrs Dapaah do not automatically establish wrongdoing on her part. He noted that the return of funds that were frozen during the investigations further separates the current appointment from any finding of guilt.
However, he emphasised that political appointments also require careful consideration of how they will be received by competing factions within a party. In his view, the vetting process could become vulnerable to arguments over credibility if contestants believe the chairperson’s previous public record provides grounds for challenge.
The political environment within the NPP, he added, makes the issue particularly sensitive because several individuals are seeking influential positions at the party’s national level. Among those mentioned in the discussion were John Boadu, Paul Afoako, Boakye Agyarko, Kwabena Agyapong and Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi.
Dr Asante Otchere also touched on the internal dynamics surrounding the contest for national leadership positions. He suggested that the party’s factions and competing interests could make the vetting process especially demanding as aspirants seek to secure support ahead of the elections.
That notwithstanding, he praised the structures being put in place for the exercise while urging the party to resolve disputes that could affect the credibility of the process. The emphasis, according to him, should remain on ensuring that the eventual exercise commands confidence among contestants and party supporters.
He also questioned the prospects of Bernard Antwi Boasiako in the national chairmanship contest in light of his current legal circumstances. Dr Asante Otchere suggested that his situation could make participation difficult even if developments eventually allow him to pursue the position.
Palgrave Defends Choice For NPP Vetting Committee
Member of the New Patriotic Party and spokesperson for Bernard Antwi Boasiako, Dr Palgrave Boakye Danquah defended the party’s appointment of Cecilia Abena Dapaah as chairperson of its vetting committee. He argued that the decision followed deliberate consideration by the party and that Mrs Dapaah remains suitably qualified to lead the nine-member body.
Dr Danquah explained that Mrs Dapaah’s seniority and experience within the NPP informed the party’s confidence in her ability to supervise the vetting process. He also indicated that the party was aware of the issues surrounding her previous investigations before selecting her for the assignment.
Therefore the NPP member rejected suggestions that the appointment could weaken the credibility of the process. He emphasised that the party continues to hold Mrs Dapaah in high regard and expects the committee to identify qualified candidates for the various national positions.
“The party has made a decision. Honourable Cecilia Abena Dapaah is a member of the party, a very senior one as such, and we have confidence in her.”
Dr Jonathan Asante Otchere
Dr Danquah further indicated that the vetting committee would be expected to apply the party’s requirements as it assesses persons seeking national office. In addition, he indicated confidence in the committee’s ability to complete the exercise and present eligible aspirants to the party.
Addressing Bernard Antwi Boasiako and his intention to contest the national chairmanship position, Dr Danquah disclosed that preparations were underway to obtain nomination forms for him within the announced period.
The spokesperson disclosed that the collection of forms was scheduled between August 17 and August 22. He explained that the team intends to follow each stage of the process carefully and address any difficulty through the appropriate channels.
According to Dr Danquah, the team remains confident that it can complete the initial stages of the process successfully. He further indicated that the filing stage would follow after the forms are obtained, allowing the campaign to proceed according to the party’s established procedures.
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