The National Democratic Congress (NDC) in Wulensi, Northern Region, is grappling with internal strife as tensions escalate between the constituency executives and a group of 96 suspended members. The suspended members, identifying themselves as the Concerned Suspended Loyal Members, have publicly denounced their suspension as illegal and politically motivated, demanding its immediate reversal and a public apology from the party leadership. They argue that the suspension blatantly disregards Article 48 Clause 123 of the NDC constitution, which guarantees due process, fair hearing, and proper communication before disciplinary actions. The group contends that the actions of the constituency executives constitute political persecution rather than legitimate party discipline.
At the heart of the conflict lies the group’s decision to support an independent parliamentary candidate during the 2024 general elections. While the constituency executives perceive this as an act of disloyalty, the suspended members maintain that their choice was a strategic maneuver driven by the perceived disconnect between the former NDC MP and the grassroots. They further assert that their support for the independent candidate ultimately benefited the NDC, as the elected MP now caucuses with the party in Parliament, strengthening its legislative position. Despite reconciliation efforts led by then-presidential candidate John Dramani Mahama during the campaign period, the internal divisions persisted and deepened after the elections.
The local executives swiftly moved to sanction members perceived as aligned with the independent MP, accusing them of disloyalty. This action further fueled the conflict, leading to a public confrontation over the appointment of a new NADMO District Coordinator. The constituency executives protested the appointment, alleging that the individual was imposed upon them through the influence of the independent MP and was not a registered NDC member. However, the suspended group vehemently denies these allegations, defending the NADMO coordinator as a loyal and long-serving NDC member whose appointment was based on merit.
The Concerned Suspended Loyal Members accuse the constituency executives of using false accusations and political maneuvering to suppress dissent within the party. They warn that these actions are deepening divisions, eroding trust in the local leadership, and ultimately harming the party’s unity and effectiveness. Despite their grievances, the group reaffirms their commitment to the NDC, emphasizing that their fight is not against the party but against unconstitutional actions and internal witch-hunts that threaten its integrity.
This internal conflict within the Wulensi NDC reflects broader challenges facing the party’s grassroots machinery in parts of the Northern Region. The struggle for control and influence, coupled with allegations of disregard for due process and internal democracy, raises concerns about the party’s cohesion and its ability to present a united front in future elections. The situation also highlights the complexities of managing internal dissent and balancing the need for party discipline with the rights of individual members.
The ongoing dispute in Wulensi underscores the importance of addressing internal grievances through transparent and constitutional processes. The failure to resolve such conflicts effectively can lead to protracted internal battles, factionalism, and ultimately weaken the party’s overall strength. The NDC’s national leadership will need to intervene to mediate the situation in Wulensi and ensure that the party’s internal mechanisms for resolving disputes are adhered to. This is crucial not only for restoring unity within the Wulensi branch but also for sending a clear message that the party values internal democracy and respects the rights of its members.
