Osman Ayariga, the dynamic Deputy National Youth Organizer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and CEO of the National Youth Authority (NYA), has galvanized the party’s youth wing into a formidable force in the crucial Ablekuma North parliamentary rerun. His energetic leadership and strategic deployment of the NDC’s “Green Army,” a grassroots youth mobilization initiative, have positioned him as a key figure in this closely contested election, a race that has drawn national attention and become a testing ground for the party’s future electoral strategies. Ayariga’s commitment to ensuring a peaceful and transparent election, coupled with his relentless campaigning on behalf of NDC candidate Ewurabena Aubynn, has resonated with the electorate, particularly the youth, who see in him a champion for their aspirations and a symbol of change.
Ayariga’s leadership has revitalized the NDC’s youth engagement, transforming the Green Army into a disciplined and effective political machine. His tireless efforts, marked by door-to-door canvassing, energetic rallies, and meticulous oversight of youth-led election monitoring teams, have injected fresh momentum into the NDC’s campaign. This renewed focus on grassroots mobilization, coupled with Ayariga’s strategic acumen, has not only energized the party’s base but also earned accolades from senior NDC officials, who view the Ablekuma North rerun as a crucial barometer for the party’s prospects in the upcoming 2028 general elections. The success of the Green Army under Ayariga’s command is being touted as a model for future campaigns, demonstrating the power of organized youth participation in shaping electoral outcomes.
The Ablekuma North by-election, necessitated by a protracted electoral dispute following the December 2024 general elections, carries significant weight. The constituency has been without a parliamentary representative for over six months, creating a political vacuum that both the NDC and the NPP are eager to fill. The NPP’s official boycott of the rerun, complicated by the independent candidacy of their original candidate, Nana Akua Owusu Afriyie, has added an unexpected layer of complexity to the race. This dynamic has further underscored the importance of Ayariga’s calls for peace and vigilance, emphasizing the need for a fair and transparent electoral process free from intimidation or disruption.
Ayariga’s focus on youth empowerment and his emphasis on a peaceful and transparent election have become central themes of the NDC’s campaign in Ablekuma North. He has consistently urged all stakeholders to prioritize the integrity of the electoral process and respect the will of the people. His warnings against any attempts to disrupt the election, coupled with the deployment of youth-led monitoring teams across all polling stations, demonstrate his commitment to ensuring a free and fair contest. This focus on transparency and accountability has resonated with voters, reinforcing the message that this election is about more than just securing a parliamentary seat – it’s about upholding the principles of democracy.
The outcome of the Ablekuma North by-election holds significant implications for the NDC, extending beyond the immediate gain of a parliamentary seat. A victory for the NDC would not only represent a symbolic triumph in a historically NPP-leaning constituency but also solidify the growing influence of youth leadership within the party and in Ghanaian politics more broadly. Ayariga’s prominent role in the campaign has underscored the increasing importance of youth engagement and mobilization in shaping electoral outcomes. The election has become a showcase for the power of organized youth activism and a testament to the potential of young leaders to drive political change.
For Osman Ayariga, the Ablekuma North by-election is not just about winning a seat; it’s about transforming the political landscape. He sees this election as an opportunity to redefine the role of young people in Ghanaian politics, empowering them to become active participants in shaping their future. A victory for Ewurabena Aubynn, he argues, is a victory for the youth and a victory for Ablekuma North. By framing the election as a pivotal moment for youth engagement, Ayariga has not only galvanized the NDC’s youth base but also positioned himself as a leading voice for the next generation of Ghanaian political leaders. His vision extends beyond the immediate election, encompassing a broader goal of empowering young people to become agents of change and to play a more significant role in shaping the future of Ghana.
