The Konkomba Concerned Youth, a group representing the Konkomba ethnic group in Ghana’s Oti Region, has voiced serious concerns regarding alleged ethnic discrimination in the selection process for Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs). They allege that despite being significant members of the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) and forming a substantial portion of the population in several districts, Konkomba candidates have been systematically excluded from the shortlist for MMDCE positions. This exclusion is particularly egregious in Nkwanta North, where Konkombas constitute over 90% of the population. The group attributes this discrimination to a tribal agenda allegedly spearheaded by the Oti Regional Minister, Hon. Kwadwo Gyapong, citing a circulating audio recording purportedly capturing his anti-Konkomba sentiments.
The Konkomba Concerned Youth’s press release details the alleged marginalization, emphasizing the significant role Konkombas play in the region’s socio-economic and political landscape. They highlight their consistent support for the NDC, evidenced by the election of three Konkomba MPs out of the nine representing the Oti Region. The group warns that this exclusion could lead to social and political tensions, erode public trust in the government, hinder development, and violate the constitutional rights guaranteeing equal opportunities for all citizens. They see the alleged actions of the Regional Minister as a dangerous precedent that could undermine national unity and democratic principles.
The press release underscores the implications of ethnic discrimination, emphasizing its potential to fuel societal divisions and conflict. It argues that excluding a significant and active group like the Konkombas from governance weakens the region’s development prospects. The group stresses that good governance hinges on diverse leadership and that sidelining any group based on ethnicity is detrimental to democratic progress. They also assert that such discriminatory practices violate Ghana’s 1992 Constitution, which guarantees equal rights and opportunities for all citizens, irrespective of their ethnic background.
The Konkomba Concerned Youth call on President John Dramani Mahama to intervene decisively and ensure a fair and inclusive selection process. Their demands include a thorough review of the submitted list of MMDCE nominees, an official investigation into the authenticity and content of the alleged audio recording, and engagement with key stakeholders across all ethnic groups in the region. They urge the President to publicly reaffirm the government’s commitment to equity and inclusion, issuing a strong directive against ethnic discrimination at all levels of governance.
The group appeals to the wider public, including civil society organizations and traditional authorities, to support their call for justice and fairness. They emphasize that Ghana’s strength lies in its diversity and that every citizen, regardless of ethnicity, has the right to participate in governance. They warn that the alleged actions of the Regional Minister, if confirmed, set a dangerous precedent that could undermine national cohesion. They believe that addressing this issue swiftly and decisively is crucial for upholding democratic principles and safeguarding national unity.
The Konkomba Concerned Youth conclude by urging the government to treat the matter with utmost urgency and call on relevant security agencies and human rights bodies to investigate the allegations and protect the rights of all citizens. They reiterate their commitment to advocating for justice, peace, and national unity, emphasizing that the future of Ghana’s democracy hinges on ensuring fairness and preventing the marginalization of any ethnic group in governance. They believe that a prompt and effective response from the government is essential to restoring trust and ensuring equitable representation in the Oti Region’s leadership.
