Confusion At NPP Congress

The timely intervention of some "concerned members" of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) stopped what would have led to a free for all fight during the Tema West NPP delegates congress. The controversy was over the payment of fees by those who wanted to contest for executive positions. Before the elections, a leading member of the party, Francis Tuyee objected to the payment of fees by contestants because it was illegal.

He pulled a letter signed by Mr Dan Botwe, General Secretary of the NPP addressed to all executive members of constituencies directing against the payment of fees by contestants for executive positions. A delegate questioned why he (Tuyee) waited till the last minute before informing them about the letter. He therefore asked the delegates to disregard it.

This infuriated septuagenarian Mr Tuyee who quickly put down the microphone and attempted to attack the delegate but was prevented by some delegates. Mr Tuyee left the scene with some of his supporters.

When calm was restored after an hour, Mr Azure Sampana, constituency chairman organised the delegates and the election was conducted.

Mr Sampana retained his position as chairman, Mr Henry Osei-Owusu and Mrs Beatrice Dickson also retained posts as secretary and treasurer respectively. Mr Atsu Doe was returned unopposed as the first vice chairman with Mr M. K. Antwi as the second vice-chairman and assistant secretary going to Mr Michael Lawel while Mrs Agnes Ansah had the post of women's organiser. Mr Charles Aidoo and Mr Daniel Oware were elected to hold the positions of youth organisers.