The New Era for Awutu Senya East Constituency (ASEC) has noted with grave concern the recent remarks made by the Central Regional Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Prof Richard Kofi Aseidu, during the victory celebration for Phillis Naa Koryoo Okunor.

"While we recognize and celebrate this significant achievement for our great party, we find the Chairman's comments to be divisive, inflammatory, and contrary to the spirit of unity that our party leadership has consistently advocated," New Era noted in a statement dated December 27, 2024, signed Alhaji Mohammed Toure (Spokesperson); Abdul Rashid Abubakar (Convener); Little Nsobila (Member); and Stephen Apolima (Member).

The statement noted the following issues outlined by "loyal members of the NDC":

1.   Bias Exhibited During the Primaries

The Regional Chairman's open admission of his favoritism during the primaries raises serious questions about his impartiality as a leader. His actions not only undermined the democratic processes outlined in the NDC Constitution but also created unnecessary tensions within the party. Article 9 of the Constitution mandates fairness and transparency in party activities. It is unacceptable for a leader to openly admit bias when his role is to ensure a level playing field for all candidates.

2.    Divisive and Finger-Pointing Remarks

Rather than fostering unity and reconciliation, the Chairman's comments at the victory celebration pointed fingers at perceived adversaries within the party. This is counterproductive and contrary to the admonitions of party dignitaries, including the Majority Leader, Hon. Ato Forson, and the President-Elect, H.E. John Dramani Mahama, who have repeatedly urged us to let bygones be bygones and work together for the collective good of the NDC. The Chairman's remarks risk deepening divisions at a time when we should be consolidating our gains. 

3.    Guidance from Party Leadership

We recall the Majority Leader's heartfelt plea for unity and H.E. John Dramani Mahama's firm admonition against voting "skirt-and-blouse." These calls for unity resonated with party members, who put aside their grievances to rally behind Hon. Phillis Naa Koryoo Okunor during the main election.

The Regional Chairman's comments are therefore a betrayal of the collective effort and sacrifice of party members who heeded the call to prioritize the NDC's success over personal interests.

 4.    The NDC Constitution Supports Unity and Discipline

As a group committed to upholding the principles enshrined in the NDC Constitution, we invoke Articles 9 and 12, which emphasize the importance of unity, transparency, and the peaceful resolution of disputes. The Chairman's conduct violates these principles and undermines the efforts of the National Executives to maintain cohesion within the party.

 5.    Our Demands

* We call on Prof. Richard Kofi Aseidu to render an unqualified apology to all NDC members in the Awutu Senya East Constituency who put aside their differences to heed the calls of H.E. John Dramani Mahama, the Majority Leader, Hon. Ato Forson, and other National Executives to unite and support Hon. Phillis Naa Koryoo Okunor.

* We urge the party leadership to caution Prof. Richard Kofi Aseidu against his divisive tendencies and remind him of his responsibility as a leader to promote unity within the party at all levels.

* We warn Prof. Richard Kofi Aseidu against any attempt to exhibit bias or foster division during the appointment process of the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Awutu Senya East. His actions must reflect fairness, inclusivity, and respect for all party members.

* We reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that the NDC remains a united force in Awutu Senya East and beyond, and we will not tolerate actions that undermine this unity. 

"The New Era for ASEC remains steadfast in its commitment to the ideals of the NDC and will continue to advocate for a party that prioritizes collective progress over individual interests. We urge all party members to remain focused on our shared vision of development, social justice, and inclusivity," the statement concluded.