Alhaji Said Sinare, the National Chairman of the Zongo Caucus Working Committee of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has taken a firm stance against the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), criticizing its leadership and claiming it has become disorganized under President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. Sinare accused the NPP of misleading the electorate during the last elections with false promises, asserting that they are unworthy of re-election in the upcoming 2024 elections. His remarks reflect not only his discontent with the current governance but also a strategic rallying call for the NDC as it prepares to contest in the Volta Region, where Sinare articulated their ambition to win all 18 parliamentary seats.
Emphasizing the NDC’s readiness for the upcoming elections, Sinare characterized the party as being “emotionally, physically, and spiritually” equipped to achieve victory. He expressed confidence in the caliber of candidates the NDC plans to field, highlighting that they are sincerely committed to serving the people of the Volta Region, which has historically been an NDC stronghold. In his addresses to constituents in various constituencies such as Hohoe, Ketu South, and Kpando Zongo, he warned against supporting Dr. Bawumia, claiming that his leadership could lead to a further decline in living conditions, particularly concerning poverty and food security.
Sinare presented the NDC’s vision for the Volta Region under John Mahama’s leadership, proposing initiatives like a “24-hour economy” that would cater to the entrepreneurial spirit of Zongo communities and facilitate broader economic development. He dubbed the NDC’s “Big Push” initiative as a transformative plan that would significantly benefit the region, with specific focus on creating job opportunities for Zongo youth through Mahama’s “Mahama Cares” initiative aimed at improving access within security services. Furthermore, he detailed ambitious projects envisioned for the next administration, including the creation of educational institutions and trade facilities designed to uplift the Zongo community.
During a gathering with Muslims in Gakli, Ketu South, Sinare took the opportunity to critique Dr. Bawumia’s economic policies, especially regarding the stability of the currency. He stated that a Mahama-led administration would prioritize stabilizing the dollar and CFA exchange rates as part of their economic management strategy. He further called on constituents from several constituencies, such as Hohoe, Ketu South, Kpando, South Dayi, and North Tongu, to support Mr. Mahama, citing the NPP’s alleged focus on personal interests at the expense of national well-being.
Additionally, Sinare accused Dr. Bawumia of neglecting the specific needs of Zongo communities and misusing government resources for personal ambitions instead of addressing pressing national challenges, such as the prohibitive costs associated with Hajj pilgrimages that hinder many Zongo residents from fulfilling their religious obligations. Closing his week-long tour of the Volta Region in North Tongu, Sinare condemned what he described as acts of discrimination and violence against Muslims since 2017, suggesting that the current administration has allowed such incidents to occur without accountability, thereby fostering an environment of impunity.
In summary, Alhaji Sinare’s speeches and engagements throughout the Volta Region demonstrate a focused effort by the NDC to consolidate support among voters, particularly within Zongo communities. He emphasized the party’s commitment to social justice, equality, and development in the region while firmly opposing the NPP’s governance. With promises of initiatives aimed at empowering the Zongo youth and maintaining equality under a potential Mahama administration, Sinare’s rhetoric is designed to resonate with constituents who have faced economic and social challenges, reinforcing the NDC’s narrative as the party of choice for the upcoming elections.
