Three out of 51 aspirants contesting executive positions in the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Northern Region have been disqualified following the party’s vetting exercise.

The decision has sparked concerns among some contestants, who argue that other aspirants who allegedly do not meet the party’s eligibility criteria should also have been disqualified.

The vetting forms part of preparations for the NDC’s Northern Regional executive elections, with contestants expressing differing views on the process.

Accra-based Citi News reported that Deputy Communications Officer aspirant Abdallah Abu Safianu questioned the clearance of some candidates, claiming they did not satisfy the requirements outlined in the party’s constitution.

He referred to Article 8, Clause 2(1), which he said requires aspirants seeking regional executive positions to have previously held office at the branch or tertiary level.

Mr Abu Safianu maintained that candidates who fail to meet this requirement should not be allowed to contest.

However, other aspirants welcomed the exercise, describing the vetting process as smooth and transparent. Some also expressed optimism about their chances of winning their respective positions.

Beyond the contest for executive roles, some aspirants called for unity within the party, arguing that internal cohesion would be essential to the NDC’s efforts to reclaim constituencies currently held by the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the 2028 general elections.

Chairman of the Northern Regional Vetting Committee, Baba Jamal, has advised aspirants dissatisfied with the outcome to pursue their concerns through the party’s Appeals Committee.

He also cautioned contestants against indiscriminate placement of campaign posters, particularly on highways and road signs.

Mr Jamal urged all aspirants to campaign peacefully and conduct themselves with decorum throughout the electoral process.