Tensions are mounting in the Pusiga District as the selection process for the next District Chief Executive (DCE) has sparked allegations of ethnic favouritism, overshadowing merit and dedication to party work.

The controversy brewing within the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has raised concerns about the integrity of the selection process and its implications for unity within the party.

Closed sources suggest that Benjamin Atuasi, the NDC’s Upper East Regional Deputy Communication Officer, has been sidelined in the selection process despite his significant contributions to the party’s success in the 2024 elections.

Some influential executives are reportedly manipulating the process to favour their preferred candidate, ignoring Atuasi’s efforts and sacrifices for the party.

A key argument against Atuasi’s candidacy is the claim that he hails from the same geographical area as the sitting Member of Parliament (MP), Hon. Laadi Ayii Ayamba.

However, sources close to Atuasi have refuted this assertion, clarifying that he is a native of the Terago Electoral Area, where both his family home and personal residence are located. In contrast, the MP originates from the Pusiga Natinga Electoral Area.

This, they argue, nullifies the claim of geographical redundancy and should not be a basis for his exclusion.

They further contend that he enjoys widespread popularity among both the youth and elderly in the district and would make a more competent DCE than the candidates being pushed by powerful figures within the party.

They argue that his dedication to grassroots mobilization and his track record in party communication make him a strong contender for the position.

Calls for a fair and transparent selection process have grown louder, with party executives and stakeholders advocating for an ethnically balanced leadership structure as the directive was that all three shortlisted candidates should not come from the same ethnic group, as this contradicts the NDC’s principles of inclusivity and diversity.

The controversy has created a tense atmosphere in the district, with some party members fearing that a biased selection process could lead to internal divisions and weaken the NDC’s prospects in future elections.

The party leadership has yet to address these concerns publicly, but pressure is mounting for an impartial and merit-based approach in selecting the next DCE.

SOURCE: Moses Apiah - A1 Radio