AYC calls for state financing of political parties

Accra, July 14, GNA - The Governing Council of the African Youth Command (AYC) has called on the Government and Parliament to discuss and establish the ways and means of financing the first five political parties in Ghana.

A statement issued by the Executive Council of AYC on Sunday, signed by Dr F.W.A. Akuffo, its President, said the President of Ghana as well as the majority of the Cabinet and other ministers were selected from Members of Parliament, who almost always came from the national parties. These formed the core of Ghanaians responsible for the policies that could make or destroy Ghana it said, adding "it is, therefore, very necessary that Ghanaians have another look at ensuring that these political parties are serious institutions nurtured to attract the right calibre of Ghanaians".

The statement said if the country continued to leave these parties to their fates, especially to become cash-strapped, they were likely to fall prey to all kinds negative forces.

It said the government should support with financing of congresses and the running headquarters and offices of these political parties. However, campaigns for election cost should be borne by the parties themselves.

The statement suggested that government should arrange for an external grant or loan of about five to 10 million dollars to be used to buy treasury bills or bonds adding that the proceeds should then be used to support the first five political parties of the country.

It said all developed nations and world financial institutions that wanted to see Ghana, as a permanent multi-partisan democratic country should also help.