Hiliary Aniakwo calls for review of NPP’s GH₵4 million development levy

A member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Chiana-Paga Constituency, Hiliary Aniakwo, has described the GH₵4 million development levy imposed on the party’s flagbearer aspirants as excessive, warning that it could disadvantage competent candidates who lack financial strength.

Speaking on the Big Mike Breakfast Show on Monday October 13, Aniakwo said that although he supports the party’s decision as a loyal member, he personally believes the amount is too high and should be reviewed to promote fairness and inclusiveness in the selection process.

“Personally, I think that it is too high. If you look at it critically, it means we are throwing away competence, people who can do the job, but focusing on those who can provide more money, and that is worrying.” He said.

He called on the NPP leadership to listen to the concerns of members and stakeholders and consider revising the fee.

“It is not too late for leadership to come out and say, ‘Looking at the concerns of our people, we think we have to reverse or review this for equity and fairness,’” he suggested.

Aniakwo also observed that the issue reflects a broader trend of monetization within Ghana’s political system, cautioning that such developments threaten the foundations of true democracy.

“It is not just about the NPP; it is a general trend in our politics. Everything now is about money,” he noted. “I have gone through elections at different levels, from unit committee to assembly, council of state, and party elections, and the amount of money involved is huge.”

He warned that if the growing monetization of politics is not tackled decisively, the country’s fight against corruption could suffer major setbacks.

Aniakwo advocated for an open acknowledgment of the problem by all political parties and called for a deliberate, sustained effort to address the influence of money in Ghanaian politics.

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