The National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, has reiterated the party’s support for its decision to restructure its parliamentary leadership, dismissing criticisms of the move as unfounded.
Earlier this year, the NDC replaced Haruna Iddrisu (Tamale South MP), James Klutse Avedzi (Ketu North MP), and Muntaka Mubarak (Asawase MP) as minority leader, deputy minority leader, and minority whip, respectively.
The reshuffle sparked significant debate, with some party members and observers labelling the timing as ill-advised, especially with the 2024 general election on the horizon.
Addressing party supporters during a campaign rally in Ajumako Enyan Essiam in the Central Region on Thursday, November 21, Asiedu Nketiah defended the changes as a well-thought-out strategy to bolster the party’s parliamentary performance.
“When we made the changes in Parliament, did you see the criticisms that followed? Everyone was picking on me. But we stood firm because we saw something better in the new leaders,” he said.
Asiedu Nketiah likened the restructuring to a relay race, stating, “The old leaders have done their part, but it was a relay race. When an athlete gets tired, he hands over the baton. So, we handed over the baton to Ato Forson, and he did not disappoint us. We don’t regret it either.”
He expressed gratitude for the decision, adding that the reshuffle has brought renewed energy and improved the party’s image. “We thank God for opening our eyes. The new leaders have made the party more attractive,” he noted.
Despite the initial backlash, Asiedu Nketiah highlighted the positive impact of the leadership shake-up, emphasising the importance of strategic planning as the NDC gears up for the 2024 elections.
The comments reflect the party’s confidence in its revamped leadership team, which includes Cassiel Ato Forson as Minority Leader. The NDC is positioning itself as a united and focused force to challenge the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the upcoming elections.