Deputy General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Mustapha Gbande, says he is optimistic that the party will emerge victorious in the forthcoming Akwatia by-election.
Speaking on Citi Eyewitness News on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, Gbande attributed his confidence to the NDC’s internal cohesion, effective leadership, and unwavering commitment to democratic principles.
In the interview, Gbande criticised the New Patriotic Party (NPP), accusing it of attempting to impose a candidate on the constituents of Akwatia.
He likened the party’s approach to the ceremonial outdooring of chiefs, suggesting that it lacked the hallmarks of a truly democratic process.
“Even in the Akwatia constituency, all is not well with the NPP,” Gbande asserted.
“They have gone in there and decorated a particular candidate as if that is how they outdoor chiefs, imposing him on the party. We will not go down that path.”
Gbande described the NDC as a “strong and competent” political force deeply committed to internal democracy.
He stated that the party’s strategy for the upcoming by-election would be shaped by principles of good governance, meaningful political engagement, and a solid track record of credibility.
“We believe that, for all intents and purposes, we are going to win the Akwatia election on the basis of quality politicking, good governance, and our track record,” he said confidently.
Gbande further emphasised the importance of open internal competition within the NDC, asserting that every qualified aspirant should be given a fair opportunity to contest for the party’s slot in the by-election.
According to him, this inclusive approach ensures that the eventual candidate genuinely reflects the aspirations of the party’s grassroots base.
“That is why we believe the only way to arrive at a candidate suitable for the by-election is to allow each and every one an opportunity to contest, so that internally, the party will decide,” Gbande was quoted as saying.
Meanwhile, Evans Nimako, Director of Elections for the NPP, has rejected assertions that Solomon Kwame Asumadu is being imposed on both the party and the constituents of Akwatia as their parliamentary candidate.
Nimako dismissed the claims and reaffirmed the party’s commitment to a fair and transparent selection process.
VKB/MA
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