A coalition of branch executives of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Greater Accra Region has raised serious concerns over the vetting process for Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs), calling for an urgent review.
The group alleges that the process has been marred by manipulation, favoritism, and the imposition of candidates by a select group of insiders.
Speaking on behalf of the coalition, Animle Oyanka Oshimpa described the current vetting process as “unlawful and undemocratic,” insisting that it undermines the party’s core values of transparency, accountability, and grassroots participation.
“It is unacceptable for individuals without the necessary authority to interfere in the selection process for their own personal gain,” Oshimpa stated.
"Such actions weaken public trust in governance and threaten the democratic foundations of our party.”
The executives are demanding the immediate publication of the official list of shortlisted candidates and full disclosure of the criteria used in their selection.
They are also calling for an independent investigation to determine whether there was undue influence in the process and to hold those responsible accountable.
According to the coalition, the appointment of MMDCEs is crucial to local governance and development, and any manipulation of the process could have dire consequences for the NDC’s credibility.
They are, therefore, urging the party’s national leadership and President John Dramani Mahama, as the appointing authority, to intervene and ensure that only competent, credible, and community-focused candidates are considered.
“The National Executives must take immediate steps to re-conduct the vetting process across all districts in Accra,” the coalition emphasized. “Failure to do so will not only damage the party’s reputation but could also have electoral repercussions in the region.”
The demand for a review reflects growing discontent among grassroots members, who fear that the alleged manipulation of the MMDCE selection process could weaken the party’s chances in upcoming elections.
The coalition has called on all party stakeholders, civil society organizations, and Ghanaians to support their call for fairness, transparency, and accountability in local governance.
As tensions rise, all eyes are on the NDC’s national leadership to respond decisively and restore confidence in the party’s internal processes.
The outcome of this situation is expected to shape not only local governance in Greater Accra but also the NDC’s broader electoral fortunes.
Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith
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