The Sekyere Kumawu constituency of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) is in turmoil following a fiery rebellion by party youth over the snubbing of their preferred candidate, Shamsu Huda, for the District Chief Executive (DCE) position.
Chanting slogans like “Mahama Don’t Dare” and “No Shamsu, No DCE,” angry youth clad in red stormed the party office, vandalizing property and destroying over five computers, office furniture, and critical documents.
Their fury, they say, is fueled by tribal undertones surrounding the selection process and offensive remarks reportedly made by a former appointee who allegedly vowed never to allow a Northerner to lead Kumawu as DCE.
Speaking on ABC Midday News, Abdul Rashad, Deputy Election Director for the NDC in the Kumawu Constituency, condemned what he described as tribal discrimination within the party.
“We feel that someone has spoken against Northerners in the constituency, especially the grassroots,” he said, alleging that despite the overwhelming endorsement of Shamsu Huda by the constituency executives, the paramount chief of Kumawu, and the Ashanti Regional Chairman, a disqualified candidate is being imposed.
“Our problem was that he has spoken against Northerners,” Rashad reiterated.
Acting as the youth representative, Rashad issued a stern warning to the national leadership. “If we don’t hear from leadership, we are going to demolish the building and be done with the party,” he declared.
Other party officials, including Secretary to the Election Directorate, Sualey Yakubu Olanto, echoed the frustration, warning that the party risks losing grassroots support in Kumawu if it continues down this path.
A local Zongo leader also called on party leadership to suspend any appointment and engage the base before further chaos unfolds.
