NDC CHIEFTAIN WARNS AGAINST CANDIDATE IMPOSITION

A prominent chieftain of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has issued a strong warning against the imposition of candidates ahead of the party’s upcoming primaries, saying such practices could undermine internal democracy and the party’s chances in the 2028 general elections.

Mr. Kwame Sarpong, a former regional chairman and influential voice within the NDC, made the call on Friday during a meeting with party executives in Accra. He urged the leadership to allow aspirants to compete freely and ensure a level playing field for all interested members.

“Candidate imposition has never helped our party. We must respect the wishes of the delegates and the grassroots. Imposing candidates creates division and weakens our structure. Let the best hands emerge through transparent processes,” Sarpong stated.

The warning comes as the NDC prepares for internal elections to select candidates for various positions. Several aspirants have already declared their interest, raising concerns over potential interference by party bigwigs.

Sarpong’s position has been echoed by other party members who believe that democratic selection processes will produce stronger and more acceptable candidates. They argued that past impositions have led to apathy and reduced voter turnout in some constituencies.

The National Chairman of the NDC, Mr. Johnson Asiedu Nketia, assured that the party leadership is committed to fairness and transparency. “We will listen to the concerns of our members. The NDC remains a democratic party, and we will uphold the principles that define us,” Nketia said.

Political analysts believe the call for openness could influence how the NDC conducts its primaries and help the party present a united front ahead of the general elections. As the NDC positions itself to challenge the ruling government, internal cohesion and credible candidate selection are seen as critical to its success.

The party is expected to issue further guidelines on the conduct of primaries in the coming weeks.