Political unrest is brewing within the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Suhum Constituency as tensions intensify ahead of the announcement of the next Municipal Chief Executive (MCE).
As speculation mounts over the nomination of a controversial figure, party insiders and grassroots members have begun mobilizing in protest, raising alarms over possible demonstrations and civil disturbances if the decision does not reflect popular sentiment.
At the heart of the controversy is Lydia Afasi Ohenewah, the current Women Organizer for the NDC in Suhum, whose name is reportedly being considered for the MCE position by the Presidency.
Her potential nomination has ignited fierce backlash from both party executives and residents, with some accusing the party leadership of disregarding internal rules and favoring personal connections over merit.
A Troubled Candidacy
Ohenewah’s involvement with the NDC only began approximately two years ago, placing her candidacy in conflict with the party’s constitution, which stipulates that any member seeking executive or political office must have served in the party for at least more than two years.
Her fast-tracked rise into party leadership—first as Women Organizer and now a potential MCE—has led to sharp criticisms from senior party members and grassroots supporters alike.
Her initial bid for the Women Organizer position caused a stir within the constituency, and it took the intervention of then-General Secretary Johnson Asiedu Nketia to calm the waters.
Asiedu Nketia reportedly argued for leniency based on the party’s need to grow its membership.
Although she was eventually allowed to contest, the resentment surrounding her candidacy never fully subsided—and it has now resurfaced with renewed intensity.
Critics argue that beyond her short history with the party, Ohenewah lacks the political maturity and interpersonal skills necessary to effectively lead the Suhum Municipality.
Several members have cited her alleged strained relationships with key party stakeholders and her inability to unify factions within the constituency.
Accusations of Nepotism and Internal Division
Fueling the anger is Ohenewah’s marital ties to another contender for the position—Richard Dzipha Afasi, who is not only her husband but also the brother of the Suhum Constituency Chairman.
Detractors argue that the MCE position is being treated as a family prize, turning a critical political role into what they call “a family inheritance.”
The situation has created sharp divisions within the local NDC, with many warning that such favoritism could seriously damage the party’s electoral prospects in the constituency. Youth groups and opinion leaders have vocally opposed her potential nomination, especially after rumors began circulating that her name may be officially announced this week.
Vetting Controversy
A total of 14 individuals submitted nominations for the MCE role, including the party’s 2024 parliamentary candidate for Suhum, Prince Kwadjo Tabiri.
However, during the vetting process held in Koforidua, the Eastern Regional capital, a majority of the aspirants were disqualified.
The final shortlist included only three candidates: former Presiding Member Mr. Adu Boafo, Richard Dzipha Afasi, and Lydia Afasi Ohenewah.
Conspicuously absent from the list were Prince Kwadjo Tabiri and the 1st Vice Chairman, Quarshiegah Triku.
The disqualification of Quarshiegah Triku, who was also the obvious choice of Suhum was met with widespread outrage.
Many residents had hoped he would be the consensus candidate to unite the constituency.
Prince Kwadjo Tabiri, who lost the 2024 parliamentary election to NPP’s Frank Asiedu Bekoe, publicly expressed his frustration over the disqualification, describing it as a waste of resources and a betrayal by his own party.
The disqualifications sparked rumors of bribery and manipulation at the regional level.
Several party members alleged that “cash changed hands” during the vetting process to ensure Lydia’s inclusion, while more qualified and experienced candidates were sidelined.
A History of Disappointment and Fear of Repetition
The backlash also draws on Suhum’s recent history with female MCEs, which residents remember with discontent.
During President John Mahama’s first term, he appointed Margaret Ansei, popularly known as Magoo, as MCE. Her tenure was heavily criticized for her confrontational leadership style.
She later contested the parliamentary seat in 2016 and lost decisively.
Similarly, under President Akufo-Addo, Margaret Darko Dankwa served as MCE for eight years, but her performance was also met with public dissatisfaction.
Many residents believe that these past experiences with female MCEs have contributed to the current resistance against another female nominee—especially one perceived as inexperienced and controversial.
Mounting Tensions and Threats of Protest
The political climate in Suhum is becoming increasingly volatile.
Posters have been seen around the town hinting at planned protests, and youth groups have reportedly begun mobilizing in anticipation of Ohenewah’s nomination.
Some factions have vowed to resist her confirmation at the Assembly level, insisting that she is unqualified and poses a risk to the party’s success in future elections.
“If the Chief of Staff, Hon. Julius Debrah, who hails from Suhum himself, does not intervene and stop this appointment, we will resist with everything we have,” one agitated party member warned.
“This is not about gender—this is about competence and fairness.”
Others claim that the party leadership is ignoring the will of the people in favor of personal loyalty.
There is growing fear that if their concerns are ignored, Suhum could become the next flashpoint in a series of internal conflicts currently affecting several NDC constituencies.
A Test for Leadership
With growing dissatisfaction and the potential for public disorder, the Suhum MCE appointment has morphed into a major test of the NDC’s commitment to transparency, internal democracy, and unity.
Many are now calling on President Mahama and Chief of Staff Julius Debrah to reconsider the nomination process and consult broader party structures before making any final announcements.
Source: Nana Kwesi Asare
