Political tensions are running high as unfulfilled ministerial expectations spark outrage and protests across the country.
Dr. Jonathan Otchere, a political analyst at the University of Cape Coast (UCC), has weighed in on the controversy, stating that political appointments naturally come with equal measures of hope and heartbreak.
“Appointment equally means disappointment,” he remarked during an interview on Prime News on ABC News GH on Thursday, February 6.
Dr. Otchere suggested that the government establish a Post-Appointment Management Committee to handle discontent arising from political selections, ensuring that party supporters who feel overlooked are properly managed.
“It is natural, but it is how you go about it in terms of managing expectations,” he added.
He further urged aggrieved constituents to focus on broader governance issues, emphasizing that it is the President, not MPs, who holds the ultimate power to drive national development.
Ashaiman Boils Over Mahama’s Snub
Dr. Otchere’s remarks come in the wake of violent protests in Ashaiman, where angry residents vandalized the office of the NDC Constituency Chairman after their MP, Ernest Norgbey, was left out of Mahama’s ministerial list. Furious demonstrators also attempted to block the Tema Motorway before party executives intervened.
The protesters argue that Ashaiman, a long-standing stronghold of the NDC, deserves better representation, particularly given its status as one of the highest vote-contributing constituencies.
The discontent is not isolated. The Sissala Union has also petitioned Mahama over what it calls the continued neglect of the Sissala ethnic group in ministerial and key government appointments.
“Godfather Politics” or Meritocracy?
Meanwhile, outspoken NDC members like Isaac Adongo, Peter Toobu, and Francis Sosu are notably absent from the list, fueling speculation that appointments were based on political connections rather than merit.
“Is it about competence, or is it about who has a godfather?” one disgruntled party member questioned.
Ahead of the 2024 elections, Mahama pledged to cap his government at just 60 ministers, a reduction compared to previous administrations. While this was meant to signal efficiency and fiscal discipline, it has left many political loyalists out in the cold.
Addressing the backlash, Mahama had warned his supporters to brace themselves for disappointment.
Despite his reassurances, tensions remain high as party faithful struggle to reconcile their loyalty.
