The Ga-Dangme Youth, a prominent pressure group advocating for the interests of the Ga-Dangme people, has made a resounding call for Dr. Mahamadu Bawumia, the 2024 presidential candidate for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), to select a native of Ga-Dangme as his running mate for the upcoming elections.
In a press conference held in Accra, the group emphasized the historical neglect of the Greater Accra Region in executive leadership positions, particularly within the NPP. They highlighted the fact that no indigene of the region has ever been chosen as a running mate for the party, despite its status as the administrative and commercial capital of Ghana.
Speaking on behalf of the Ga-Dangme Youth, Nii Ayi Okropong, Chairman of the Blema Kusum Gboo Council, underscored the importance of fair representation and inclusivity in political decision-making processes. He lamented the marginalization of Ga-Dangme people in key leadership roles and urged the NPP to address this longstanding imbalance by considering a Ga-Dangme candidate as Bawumia’s running mate.
Okropong emphasized the competence and qualifications of Ga-Dangme individuals, citing prominent figures such as former Speakers of Parliament and former Chief Justices who hail from the community. He argued that the Ga-Dangme community has made significant contributions to the development of Ghana and possesses the requisite expertise and leadership qualities to serve in high-level positions.
The call for a Ga-Dangme running mate reflects a broader push for diversity and representation within Ghanaian politics, as marginalized communities seek greater inclusion in decision-making processes. The Ga-Dangme Youth’s advocacy underscores the importance of ensuring that all regions and ethnic groups are adequately represented in the country’s leadership structures.
As Dr. Mahamadu Bawumia prepares to announce his running mate for the 2024 elections, all eyes will be on the NPP to see whether they heed the calls of the Ga-Dangme Youth and prioritize inclusivity and diversity in their selection process. The outcome of this decision will not only shape the dynamics of the upcoming elections but also signal the party’s commitment to fostering unity and equality within Ghana’s political landscape.