Umar Sanda has forfeited his membership of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) following his decision to contest the upcoming Ayawaso East by-election as an independent candidate.

According to Sanda, his decision was driven by overwhelming calls from his constituents.

He stated that he withdrew from the party’s internal primary because the process was “heavily monetised.”

Despite being a dedicated grassroots member of the NDC, he described the GH¢45,000 filing fee charged by the party as excessive.

He also alleged that other candidates in the primaries which was ultimately won by Baba Jamal—engaged in vote-buying.

He noted that he simply did not have the financial resources to compete in such an environment.

Speaking on Frontline on Rainbow Radio 87.5FM, Sanda revealed that constituents prefer him as their representative.

He said the community is so invested in his candidacy that members personally sponsored his filing with the Electoral Commission and are currently funding his campaign.

While he acknowledged that party rules dictate the automatic forfeiture of membership for any member who contests as an independent, he maintained his emotional connection to the party.

He told host Kwabena Agyapong that, as a founding member of the NDC in the constituency, he still cherishes the party and that “the love remains in [his] heart.”

Sanda remains emphatic that he will win the by-election and represent the people in Parliament. He also assured supporters that, if elected, he intends to caucus with the NDC.

“I am not shaken by what they have done. I am optimistic about victory. It is the community that has pushed me to contest. Constituents in the communities and those abroad are the ones sponsoring me, so I am not afraid of losing. I will win the election and be sworn in as the MP,” he said.

He concluded by stating that the “grounds are fertile” for an independent victory, expressing confidence that his years of sacrifice for the community will finally be rewarded at the polls.