Division in Tema NDC over MCE nomination

Tema, April 8, GNA - The nomination of Mr Kempes Ofosuware, a 46-year-old accounts officer of the Electricity Company of Ghana for the position of Metropolitan Chief Executive (MCE) for Tema, has been met with divergent opinion among members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in Tema. While one group alleged that Mr Ofosuware is facing three fraud cases in Accra and Tema courts thus disqualifying him for the position, another group thought he was more than qualified. A group opposed to the nomination held a press conference at Tema Manhean on Monday and appealed to the President to withdraw Mr Ofosuware's nomination until the determination of the court cases. Another group drummed and danced and hailed the nomination. Addressing a news conference Mr Joseph K. Mensah, secretary of the Tema East constituency of the NDC and supported by 11 executive members of the party, expressed shock at the nomination. "The metropolis is shocked and surprised in view of the character and calibre of the man," Mr Mensah said." He said when Mr Ofosuware's name came up among others for consideration they drew the attention of the National Appointment Committee about cases pending at the courts.

Mr Mensah said the committee members assured them of dealing with the matter and were surprised to hear of his nomination on Monday and challenged the authenticity of his nomination. Copies of petition letters forwarded to the committee members were produced at the conference. Mr Mensah said four members of the appointment committee including the chairman denied any knowledge of his nomination. "We therefore believe strongly that those behind it took advantage of President John Atta Mills' absence and leaked their favourite's name to the media." "Currently, many concerned people in the metropolis are not happy and have sent petitions to the appropriate quarters," he said. Mr Mensah pleaded with the president to withdraw Mr Ofosuware's nomination and replace him with another person. When contacted Mr Ofosuware said the court cases had no bearing on his political career. "I am as free as anybody and I excelled at the appointment committee that is why my name came up for nomination." He said he was optimistic he would get the nod from the Tema Metropolitan Assembly because "I have overwhelming support from the assembly members who will definitely vote for me". 08 April 09