Fiifi Kwetey urges African leaders to stop targeting opponents

The General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Fiifi Fiavi Kwetey, has urged African political leaders to end political victimisation and uphold genuine democratic governance, warning that the continent’s vast resources remain untapped due to a lack of political maturity.

He was speaking at the African Political Parties Summit in Accra on Tuesday, August 12, 2025.

Mr Kwetey said Africa, with its mineral wealth, natural resources and youthful population, should be in a position to lead the world but continues to fall short of its potential.

He attributed this partly to leaders who undermine institutions and suppress opposition under the guise of democracy.

He said some governments use their mandate to destroy businesses linked to opposition parties, manipulate state institutions for partisan advantage and weaken political rivals.

According to him, such actions show a disregard for the will of the people.

Mr Kwetey called for humility in political leadership, saying political office should provide a platform for other sectors, including business, culture and education, to grow.

He added that leaders must recognise they do not have all the answers and should create conditions for other forms of leadership to thrive.

He urged African political parties to examine their performance honestly and work together to find practical solutions to improve the lives of their people, especially the youth.

Mr Kwetey reaffirmed the NDC’s backing for the African Governance Centre and the African Political Parties Initiative, describing the summit as an opportunity to exchange ideas and develop strategies to advance the continent’s progress.