A youth group within the National Democratic Congress (NDC), the Democratic Concerned Youth of Tema West, has petitioned the party’s national leadership to reconsider the shortlist of nominees for the Tema West Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) position.
In a petition signed by Mr. Godson K. Quarshie, the group’s secretary, they expressed dissatisfaction with the exclusion of Mr. Romeo Elikplim Akahoho, whom they described as a dedicated grassroots politician with a strong track record in local governance.
The group highlighted Akahoho’s close relationship with Tema West MP, Hon. James Enu, as well as his leadership skills, experience, and contributions to the party’s success in the constituency. They argued that his omission from the MCE shortlist undermines the interests of the party’s grassroots supporters.
They further justified their stance by citing electoral statistics, stating that the Adjei-Kojo electoral area, where Akahoho hails from, played a key role in the NDC’s historic victory in Tema West. The constituency, which was previously held by the opposition, recorded a 5,600-plus vote difference in favor of the NDC in the 2024 general elections—a significant contribution to the party’s success.
Outlining Akahoho’s political and administrative background, the group noted that he has served in multiple capacities, including:
- Branch Secretary of the NDC
- Assembly Member for two electoral areas
- Chairperson of the Tema West Sub-Metropolitan Assembly
- Presiding Member of the Tema West Municipal Assembly (TWMA)
- Parliamentary Aspirant for Tema West
- Executive Secretary of the Chamber for Local Governance
They emphasized his leadership role in reversing the property rate collection policy to favor local assemblies, a move they believe reflects his competence in governance.
The group cautioned the NDC leadership against overlooking their concerns, stating that any attempt to disregard their demand for a review of the MCE shortlist would lead them to reconsider their stance in future elections.
“We do not want to believe this is a strategy to sabotage Hon. Romeo Elikplim Akahoho’s contributions to the development of Tema West,” the petition read, adding that they would be forced to take appropriate actions if their demands were ignored.
The petition underscores growing tensions within the Tema West NDC over the selection process for the MCE position, as grassroots members seek greater involvement in decision-making within the party.
