The nomination of Ben Abdallah Alhassan as the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Asokore Mampong has sparked protests among some grassroots supporters of the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the municipality.
Disgruntled party members, led by a faction supporting Faisal Dawuda, the Constituency Chairman of Asawase, gathered in Aboabo to express their discontent, insisting that their preferred candidate, Dawuda, has a stronger connection to the community and a proven track record of service.
They argue that his experience as a long-serving party executive makes him better suited to lead the municipality.
At a press conference on Wednesday, Suleiman Massawud, speaking on behalf of the protesting group, accused the local MP and Interior Minister, Muntaka Mubarak, of sidelining the grassroots by pushing for Abdallah’s nomination.
“We are not here because of violence; we are here to give just an insight into why we think the chairman should be selected as the MCE,” Massawud stated. “The chairman has served through the ranks, from treasurer to chairman, without any controversy. Ignoring his candidacy is a clear message that the grassroots are not valued.”
However, not all party members share this sentiment. Some constituency executives have come out in support of Abdallah’s nomination, praising President John Mahama’s decision as a move toward inclusive governance.
“We are here to express our profound gratitude and profound optimism to His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama for his visionary leadership and thoughtful decision in appointing Ben Abdallah as the MCE of Asokore Mampong Municipality,” said Aminu Mohammed, a spokesperson for the group backing the nominee.
The split within the constituency highlights the growing internal tensions within the party, as both factions insist that their preferred candidate has the right experience, community support, and vision to effectively lead the municipality.
The final decision now rests with President Mahama, as the Asokore Mampong community waits to see how the leadership dispute will be resolved.
