This blog is managed by the content creator and not GhanaWeb, its affiliates, or employees. Advertising on this blog requires a minimum of GH₵50 a week. Contact the blog owner with any queries.
Tensions have escalated in the Eastern Region as the Akyem Abuakwa Council of Zongo Chiefs, in collaboration with concerned youth groups, have openly rejected the President’s nominee for the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) position in the Abuakwa South Constituency.
At a well-attended press conference in Kyebi, the symbolic and political heart of the Akyem Abuakwa area, the leadership of the Zongo community voiced their dissatisfaction with the nomination of Nana Addo Aikins Jnr., describing it as a blatant disregard for loyalty, dedication, and long-term service to the National Democratic Congress ( NDC) by grassroots members.
Chief Alhaji Abubakar Umar, the Kyebi Zongo Chief and President of the Akyem Abuakwa Council of Zongo Chiefs, led the protest and delivered a passionate address that highlighted the deep-rooted disappointment felt by the Zongo communities. Fighting back tears during his speech, Chief Umar lamented the decision, which he described as a “stab in the back” to the Zongo people who have faithfully supported the party over the years.
Central to their concerns is the exclusion of Alhaji Sanusi Mohammed, a prominent Zongo figure and a stalwart of the NDC in the constituency. Alhaji Sanusi has been an active member of the party since 1992, and his political résumé includes serving as the constituency chairman in 2018, and representing the party as a parliamentary candidate in 2012, 2015, and 2020. His supporters argue that his unwavering loyalty and service to the party merited recognition and reward through the MCE position.
The emotionally charged press conference served as a platform for the Zongo leadership and youth to issue a stern warning to the party leadership and the Presidency. “This nomination is not just an oversight—it is an insult to our sacrifices,” Chief Umar declared, before warning that the continued neglect of Zongo interests could cost the NDC critical support in future elections.
Despite the anger and disappointment, the Zongo Chief called for calm among the youth, urging them to hold onto hope and trust that the President would heed their plea. “Let us not resort to violence. We have made our position clear. We expect the leadership to listen,” he said.
Adding to the chorus of discontent, Abdul Raman Kafando, the convener of the aggrieved youth group, emphasized that the nomination of Nana Addo Aikins Jnr. represents a betrayal of trust. “This is not just about one man. This is about the voice and future of the Zongo community,” he said, demanding an immediate reversal of the decision.
The youth present at the event echoed these sentiments, many expressing disillusionment and disappointment in what they see as the party turning its back on one of its most loyal communities.
As the controversy deepens, all eyes are now on the Presidency and party leadership, who are under increasing pressure to respond to the growing unrest in Kyebi and address the concerns of a key constituency that has historically played a vital role in their electoral success.
Credit: Akwasi Asare
