A Member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), David Selassie Anthony, popularly known as Dee Mayor, has pledged to establish a standing welfare desk for grass-roots activists if elected Deputy National Organiser of the party.
The proposed desk, he said, was intended to make the welfare of grass-roots members a more visible and organised priority within the party, providing a recognised point of contact for members with welfare concerns.
Grass-roots welfare
The initiative, which forms part of Mr Anthony’s campaign message, seeks to ensure that the contributions and well-being of grass-roots activists receive consistent attention beyond the election period.
Grass-roots activists play a key role in sustaining the NDC’s organisational structures by mobilising supporters, communicating party messages, coordinating local activities and maintaining relationships within their communities.
However, many of them perform these responsibilities while also balancing their work and family commitments.
Mr Anthony’s proposal is therefore expected to provide a more coordinated approach to identifying welfare concerns and connecting members who need assistance with the appropriate party structures.
Structured support
He said the proposed welfare desk could also provide an organised channel through which grass-roots members could present their concerns, have their needs assessed and be directed to relevant support structures.
Clear procedures and fair criteria, the proposal suggests, would be important to ensure that members understood how to seek assistance and how their concerns would be handled.
The initiative is also expected to strengthen engagement between party leadership and grass-roots members by creating a more direct and structured avenue for welfare-related issues.
Building morale
Mr Anthony said beyond providing immediate assistance, the proposed welfare mechanism could contribute to improved morale and the retention of volunteers within the party.
Recognising and supporting grass-roots activists could encourage them to remain engaged in local organising while allowing the party to benefit from their experience and continued participation.
As the NDC prepares towards the 2028 general elections, Mr Anthony’s campaign message places emphasis on the people behind the party’s mobilisation efforts and the need for their contribution to be recognised.
The proposal for a standing welfare desk, supported by clear procedures and appropriate resources, is therefore being presented as part of a broader people-centred approach to strengthening party organisation and building a more cohesive grass-roots base.
