Politicians are not an NGO; they expect to recoup money spent in elections – Inusah Fuseini

Former Tamale Central MP Inusah Fuseini has highlighted how the rising cost of politics is driving away honest individuals from public life, leading to increased corruption. Speaking on Joy News’ PM Express, he expressed concern that the expectation for politicians to recoup election expenses is narrowing their participation. Women, young people, and skilled individuals are being priced out due to the financial burden.

He noted that the growing financial demands were disproportionately affecting women and the youth, who may lack the necessary resources to engage in politics. Fuseini warned that the financial strain not only discourages morally upright individuals but also creates pressure to recover the spent money once in power, thereby fueling corruption on a national level.

He pointed out a gap in the NDC's constitution, which does not clearly define the authority of party bodies to handle cases of inducement in internal elections, rendering disciplinary actions vulnerable to legal challenges. The current committee is deliberating on which institutions should manage complaints, what constitutes inappropriate financial support, and the acceptable amount of money in these circumstances.

For instance, a delegate receiving GH¢200 could be deemed an inducement, leaving a contentious issue to be addressed. Fuseini emphasized the need for a clear framework on how to distinguish between reasonable transport support and excessive payments. He suggested that the proposed solution might grant constituency councils of elders the power to handle or refer such cases to the party’s national headquarters, with recommendations feeding into the ongoing constitutional amendment process.