The National Democratic Congress (NDC) youth in the Kojokpere Zone of the Daffiama-Bussie-Issa constituency have expressed their disappointment over the exclusion of their native from the final shortlist of candidates for the District Chief Executive (DCE) position.
At a press conference held in Kojokpere, the youth lamented that their zone has never been considered for the DCE position under any NDC government since 1992.
Nfelibing Yakubu, the Duang branch Secretary of the NDC, read a statement on behalf of the youth, calling on the party’s leadership to address their concerns.
The youth group stated that the party has deviated from point three of the guidelines for selection of MMDCEs which states “Due consideration must be given to the customary, geographical, and ethnic composition of each district to ensure a balanced distribution of political power and influence. This approach aims to foster unity and rally the entire district around a common developmental agenda.”
“Regrettably, this approach was disregarded. Two candidates were selected from communities in close proximity to the home town of the Member of Parliament, while the Kojokpere Zone, which comprises predominantly Sissala and Dagaaba communities and is situated at the farthest end of the district, was entirely overlooked,” they statement added.
The aggrieved NDC youth mentioned that despite their commitment to the party since 1992, the Kojokpere Zone has never been considered for DCE position or any key leadership position by the NDC.
They alleged that an initial list of shortlisted candidates included a son of the Kojokpere Zone. “However, just a day before the official publication, a seeming revised list emerged from the same person, excluding this candidate from our zone and replacing him with another from a community near the MP’s hometown.”
The youth warned that they would consider defecting to another party if their zone continues to be sidelined in government appointments.
“If no response is giving to these concerns before 15th February, 2025, we the youth of Kojokpere zone will collaborate with our leaders to take further decisions. That the continued exclusion of the Kojokpere Zone will further erode voter confidence in the NDC.
Many disillusioned supporters, particularly the youth, will defect to other political parties where they feel their voices are heard and their efforts recognized.”
Some members voiced their frustration, arguing that they had worked tirelessly to secure the NDC’s victory in the 2024 elections and now deserve recognition for their efforts.
Mr. Abubakari Fonjuma, Kojokpere Zonal Chairman of the NDC backed the youth’s stance, stating that he supports any action they take in response to the perceived neglect.
He emphasized the need for fair representation in political appointments, urging party leadership to reconsider their decision.
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