Leadership qualities and grassroots engagement, rather than financial inducements, will determine the success of Diana Asoketarige Ayamga’s bid to be confirmed as Bongo’s next district chief executive, a former local government official said.
Lawyer Duke Anaba, a former presiding member in Bongo, said while monetary influence has long been part of political processes, it is not decisive in assembly-level confirmations.
“Money may come into play, but it is not the determining factor,” Anaba said on Dreamz FM. “Assembly members will vote based on confidence in the person’s ability to lead.”
He acknowledged that financial gestures sometimes occur during campaigns but described them as customary rather than decisive.
“People give in different forms, but I don’t think anyone is elected solely because of money,” he said.
Lawyer Anaba urged Madam Ayamga to focus on articulating a clear vision and engaging directly with assembly members to win their support.
“She needs to spell out her vision and reach out to them,” he said. “That is what will convince them.”
He also said Madam Ayamga’s limited visibility in frontline politics could work to her advantage by reducing factional resistance.
“She has not been seen as belonging to any particular camp, and that could help her bring people together,” he said.
However, he acknowledged that some party loyalists might question her nomination due to her relatively low political profile.
“People may feel others who have been active deserve it, but contributions to a party come in different forms,” Lawyer Anaba said.
Looking ahead, Anaba emphasized the importance of inclusive leadership if Madam Ayamga is confirmed.
“She should have an open-door policy, listen to people and focus on development for the whole district,” he said.
He added that lessons from past leadership challenges in the district should guide her approach.
“Leadership style matters,” Lawyer Anaba said. “If she listens and works with people, she will succeed.”
