The National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, has revealed plans to end the use of protocol arrangements in the recruitment of personnel into the security services and other state institutions.

He made the announcement while interacting with party leaders and supporters in Sekondi-Takoradi as part of the NDC’s ongoing “Thank You Tour” in the Western Region, following the party’s win in the 2024 general elections.

Addressing supporters on the fourth day of the tour, which took him through the Effia, Kwesimintsim, Takoradi and Sekondi constituencies, Mr. Asiedu Nketiah called on party delegates to prioritise commitment and performance when selecting constituency executives. He urged members to maintain leaders who contributed meaningfully to the party’s electoral success at the grassroots.

According to him, the strength of the party depends on discipline and dedication at the local level, noting that individuals who failed to work for the party’s victory should not be rewarded.

Touching on public sector recruitment, the NDC Chairman announced that the existing protocol system for enlistment into the security services would be eliminated. He described the arrangement as discriminatory and lacking transparency, arguing that it allows opportunities to be distributed among a select few.

Mr. Asiedu Nketiah said President John Dramani Mahama has committed to opening recruitment processes to all qualified citizens, without special allocations or political favours. He added that even the limited recruitment slots currently reserved for Members of Parliament would be withdrawn under the new approach.

He explained that the policy forms part of the President’s wider vision to ensure fairness and meritocracy in access to jobs within public institutions.

During the visit, traditional authorities in the area also presented development concerns to the NDC Chairman. Among them was the delayed redevelopment of the Takoradi Market Circle.

The Chief of Takoradi, Nana Obo Kojo Atta IV, appealed for swift action to complete the project, noting that the prolonged delay has disrupted the livelihoods of traders, especially women relocated from the Jubilee Park area.

He urged authorities to fast-track the project so market activities can return to their original location and normal business restored.