Muntaka Spokesperson Rebukes Asiedu Nketia Over Remarks on Minority Leadership Reshuffle
Fresh tensions continue to surface within the governing National Democratic Congress following comments by the party’s National Chairman, Johnson Asiedu Nketia, concerning the controversial 2023 reshuffle of the Minority Leadership in Parliament.
Nasir Gardenboi, spokesperson to Interior Minister Muntaka Mubarak and Communications Officer for the NDC Asawase Constituency, has criticized the Chairman over remarks made during his thank-you tour in Tamale South, describing them as “unfortunate and unnecessary.”
In a strongly worded statement, Gardenboi argued that while the Minority leadership reshuffle may have formed part of the party’s electoral preparations ahead of the 2024 general elections, it was inaccurate to suggest that the changes alone secured victory for the NDC and President John Dramani Mahama.
According to him, the party’s electoral success was the result of collective sacrifice, strategic planning, and the hard work of party supporters across the country.
“Political frustration should never become a basis for rewriting history or unfairly attacking colleagues in pursuit of power,” portions of the statement read.
The statement further cautioned the National Chairman against comments that could deepen divisions within the party, insisting that leadership demands responsibility, fairness, and restraint.
“As National Chairman, your words should unite rather than divide,” Gardenboi stated, adding that internal disagreements within the party must be handled with maturity and respect rather than through public commentary capable of creating disaffection among loyal members.
The spokesperson also defended the records and contributions of senior party figures including Haruna Iddrisu, Muntaka Mubarak, and Cassiel Ato Forson, noting that they played crucial roles during difficult moments in the parliamentary history of the NDC.
He referenced the dramatic events of January 7, 2021, which led to the election of an opposition-backed Speaker of Parliament in the 8th Parliament, describing the moment as evidence of the strategic leadership and unity demonstrated by the then Minority leadership.
Gardenboi further warned against what he described as growing perceptions among Northerners and Muslims within the NDC that some respected leaders from those backgrounds were being unfairly targeted.
“True Northerners and Muslims are becoming increasingly aware and conscious of the need to protect their dignity, unity, and rightful place within the NDC party,” he stated.
According to him, such perceptions, whether intentional or otherwise, risk creating divisions within the party at a time when unity is needed most.
The statement stressed that Northerners and Muslims remain a critical pillar of the NDC and their contributions to the growth and success of the party cannot be overlooked.
He also reaffirmed the commitment of Haruna Iddrisu and Muntaka Mubarak to serving diligently in their current ministerial positions under the Mahama administration.
The latest comments add to a growing list of reactions from party communicators, supporters, and officials who have publicly challenged Asiedu Nketia’s recent remarks regarding the Minority leadership reshuffle and its impact on the NDC’s 2024 electoral victory.
Political observers say the exchanges reflect lingering internal disagreements within sections of the ruling party over leadership decisions and party unity ahead of future political contests.
The statement was signed by Nasir Gardenboi, spokesperson to Hon. Muntaka Mubarak and Communications Officer for the NDC Asawase Constituency.
