NDC National Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketiah has defended his leadership style, insisting that difficult decisions cannot be avoided simply because they may hurt people in the short term.
Speaking on JoyNews' PM Express on Tuesday, he said leaders must remain committed to what they believe is right, even when their decisions attract criticism or cause temporary discomfort.
The NDC chairman's comments come against the backdrop of one of the party's most controversial internal decisions while in opposition – the reshuffling of its leadership in Parliament. This move saw Haruna Iddrisu replaced as Minority Leader with Dr Cassiel Ato Forson.
Standing Firm on the Decision
Asiedu Nketiah publicly explained the thinking behind the decision, reigniting discussions over whether party leaders should openly discuss such sensitive internal matters. When asked whether he regretted speaking publicly about the episode, he said he had no reason to apologize for telling the truth.
"It doesn't change the truth, whether some people accept it or not. The truth remains the truth," he said. "So me, I always want to stay on the side of truth. Once I say something and it is true, whether you accept it or not, that is it. I'm okay with that. I sleep and sleep well."
Addressing the Backlash
The chairman acknowledged that those affected by the decision were naturally hurt but said that was inevitable when necessary decisions are made. "If I take a decision and I know it will pain you, your initial reactions don't hurt me at all," he said. He drew an analogy with surgery, adding, "If I know that that cut is necessary to heal you, I'm good with it."
Asiedu Nketiah also dismissed suggestions that the episode damaged his relationship with Haruna Iddrisu and Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak. "Very close. We worked together," he said. He explained that the purpose of his comments was to urge party supporters to stop fuelling divisions because, despite public perceptions, he remained on good terms with both men.
Defending the Decision
The NDC chairman rejected the argument that it was wrong simply because it had never happened before. "So there must be a first time for something… Everything," he said. He stressed that once he is convinced a decision is the right one, he does not hesitate. "If I believe that this is the right way of achieving my results, I will go for it, even though heaven falls."
Asiedu Nketiah's comments have sparked a fresh round of debate within the NDC, with many still grappling with the implications of the leadership reshuffle. The chairman's commitment to standing by his decisions, even in the face of criticism, has been seen as a testament to his unwavering dedication to the party's principles.
In the end, Asiedu Nketiah's leadership style has been put to the test, and he has emerged unapologetic and resolute. As the NDC continues to navigate the complexities of opposition politics, the chairman's stance on difficult decisions will be closely watched by party supporters and critics alike.
Source: Joy Online
