Minority reshuffling: Attempt by Asiedu Nketiah to control the caucus – Ben Ephson

A pollster, Ben Ephson, has condemned the decision by chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketiah for the reshuffling of the leadership of party’s Caucus in Parliament.

Cassiel Ato Forson who is the Member of Parliament for Ajumako-Enyan-Essiam on the ticket of the NDC was appointed as the Minority leaders to replaced Haruna Iddrisu as the in Parliament.

A statement dated January 25, 2023, and signed general secretary Fiifi Kwetey pointed out that MP for Ellembelle, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, will act as the deputy Minority leader.

Governs Kwame Agbodza is also charged to act the Minority Whip, with Ahmed Ibrahim and Comfort Doyo Ghansah designated as the first and second deputy whips.

Although the statement did not give reasons behind the reshuffle but Asiedu Nketiah, chairman jumped into defense explaining it form part of the party’s reorganisation prior to the 2024 election.

But the pollster who doubles as the managing editor for the Daily Dispatch newspaper said Asiedu Nketiah sought to have the NDC’s parliamentarians under his powers.

“I find it [the reasons behind the changes] a bit laughable. For Aseidu Nketiah to say that towards 2024, the battle would be fought mainly on the economic front that is why they chose Ato Forson. It’s like going to fetch water with a basket. He is creating the impression that if Ato Forson is not the Minority Leader, he cannot talk about the economy.”

“Even with Haruna Iddrisu as the Minority Leader, there’s Ato Forson was allowed to talk on the economy. I, on my part think that it’s just an attempt by John Mahama and Aseidu Nketsiah to control the caucus,” he added.

“… For me Asiedu Nketiah’s reasons for the reshuffling doesn’t wash. He just wants to have control. That’s all,” the pollster said.