A faction within the National Democratic Congress (NDC), identifying themselves as loyalists, has voiced strong disapproval of President John Dramani Mahama’s appointment of Anthony Kwasi Sarpong as the Acting Commissioner-General of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA). Their discontent stems from Sarpong’s alleged ties to the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP), raising concerns about potential conflicts of interest and his ability to effectively serve the NDC government’s agenda. The loyalists argue that Sarpong’s prior appointment by former President Nana Akufo-Addo to the Institute of Chartered Accountants, Ghana (ICAG) in 2020, further solidifies their suspicion of his NPP leanings. This appointment, they contend, disregards the hard work and dedication of numerous NDC members who contributed significantly to the party’s purported victory in the 2024 general elections. The group feels betrayed by Mahama, accusing him of failing to prioritize loyal party members for key positions, thereby undermining the trust placed in him.
The NDC loyalists’ statement criticizes Mahama’s decision to appoint Sarpong over other qualified and experienced NDC figures who have demonstrated unwavering commitment to the party. They see this appointment as a slap in the face to those who toiled tirelessly to secure the supposed 2024 electoral victory. They draw parallels to the appointment of Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah, another alleged NPP sympathizer, to the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), further fueling their suspicion of a pattern of favoritism towards opposition figures. The group highlights the importance of rewarding dedicated party members and ensuring that key appointments reflect the party’s values and priorities. They argue that overlooking loyalists for such crucial positions demoralizes the party base and creates a sense of injustice.
The group’s statement expresses a deep sense of disappointment and betrayal. They feel that Mahama’s decision to appoint Sarpong disregards the sacrifices made by loyal NDC members and undermines the party’s unity. They believe that such appointments prioritize political expediency over loyalty and merit, potentially jeopardizing the government’s effectiveness and eroding public trust. The group’s statement emphasizes the importance of recognizing and rewarding the contributions of dedicated party members, arguing that this is crucial for maintaining party morale and ensuring long-term success. They warn that overlooking loyalists could lead to internal divisions and weaken the party’s ability to govern effectively.
The loyalists issued a stern warning to President Mahama, demanding the immediate revocation of Sarpong’s appointment. They threaten to stage protests if their demands are not met, indicating their willingness to escalate the situation. This ultimatum underscores their determination to hold Mahama accountable and ensure that their concerns are addressed. They emphasize the importance of transparency and fairness in the appointment process, arguing that these principles are essential for maintaining public trust and ensuring the legitimacy of the government.
The group asserts that the appointment of Sarpong contradicts Mahama’s promise to prioritize the interests of Ghanaians and ensure equitable distribution of appointments. They accuse him of betraying the trust placed in him by both the party and the electorate. They argue that such appointments undermine the principles of fairness and meritocracy, potentially leading to corruption and inefficiency within the government. The loyalists’ statement highlights the importance of appointing individuals based on their qualifications and experience, rather than political affiliations. They believe that this is crucial for ensuring effective governance and promoting public confidence in the government.
The NDC loyalists’ statement concludes with a plea to President Mahama to reconsider his decision and appoint a deserving NDC member to the position of GRA Commissioner-General. They emphasize the abundance of qualified individuals within the party who have demonstrated their commitment and loyalty. They believe that appointing one of their own would not only address their concerns but also strengthen the party’s unity and bolster public trust in the government. They reiterate their commitment to holding Mahama accountable and ensuring that he fulfills his promises to the people of Ghana. The statement underscores the importance of prioritizing the interests of the nation and its citizens, arguing that this is the foundation of effective governance and a thriving democracy.
