A major scandal has engulfed the North Gonja District following allegations that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) vetting committee extorted GHC17,000 from aspirants vying for the position of District Chief Executive (DCE). The controversy has sparked outrage among constituents and raised questions about the integrity of the selection process.
Fresh from its December 2024 electoral victory, the NDC has begun nominating Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives across the country. The party’s official guidelines for the nomination process were detailed in a letter issued earlier this month. However, in North Gonja, accusations of corruption have overshadowed the exercise.
Reports indicate that the vetting committee allegedly charged an “appearance fee” of GHC1,000 from each of the 17 aspirants who advanced to the regional level. One aspirant, Mr. Musah Taluta, who was instrumental in the NDC’s electoral success in the constituency, reportedly refused to pay the fee and was subsequently disqualified from the process.
The exclusion of Mr. Taluta and the alleged extortion have caused divisions within the newly-elected party in the district. Critics have described the process as a “money-grabbing spree,” raising concerns about fairness and transparency.
Shortlisted Aspirants Face Uncertain Future
Despite the controversy, seven aspirants Abdulai Nashiru, Alidu Abdul-Wahab, Sumani Hudu, Prosper Gidisu, Abukari Issah, Baba Basig Diaboh, and Issahaku Karim—have been shortlisted to proceed to the next stage in Damongo, the administrative capital of the Savannah Region. However, doubts persist about whether additional fees will be demanded as the process unfolds.
Public Outrage and Calls for Accountability
The allegations have triggered widespread condemnation. Constituents from affected areas, particularly Yagbon and Mankarigu, have voiced their discontent, with some threatening to withdraw their support for the party in future elections. The scandal has also attracted the attention of local advocacy groups.
The Dream Patriots, a prominent advocacy organization, has expressed outrage over the allegations and announced plans to petition the Office of the Special Prosecutor and other relevant bodies to investigate the matter thoroughly. In a strongly worded statement, the group called on the NDC to address the issue immediately to preserve the integrity of the district.
“The reputation of North Gonja must not be trampled upon. We demand accountability and inclusive leadership,” the statement read.
Future of the Process Hangs in the Balance
As tensions escalate, the future of the DCE nomination process in North Gonja remains uncertain. Constituents and stakeholders are closely monitoring the party’s response to the allegations, with many demanding a transparent and fair resolution.
The scandal has cast a shadow over the NDC’s nomination process, leaving questions about its commitment to upholding integrity and democratic principles in its internal operations.