As President John Mahama’s government begins to take shape, discontent is brewing in the Ashaiman constituency of the Greater Accra Region.
Frustrated youth in the area feel marginalised despite their consistent and overwhelming support for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) since 1992, accusing the party of toying with their emotions.
On Thursday, a group of irate youth stormed the office of constituency chairman, Shaddad Umar Jallo, burning tires and shattering glass doors to express their displeasure.
Reports indicate that they initially planned to demonstrate against President Mahama and block traffic on the Accra-Tema motorway, but party leadership in the constituency managed to calm tempers before the situation escalated.
The youth, however, remain adamant that they will no longer be pacified with mere promises.
Presiding Member of the Ashaiman Municipal Assembly, Godwin Twumasi, urged the national leadership to take swift action, warning of further unrest.
“We have become a laughing stock. Our friends and neighbours in the NPP keep questioning our motivation for supporting the NDC when we are constantly left out during appointments,” he lamented.
Mr Twumasi highlighted that the only notable appointment Ashaiman has received is Alfred Kwame Agbeshie’s role as the 2nd Majority Leader in Parliament.
He pointed to President Mahama’s campaign promises as the root of the growing frustration.
“President Mahama promised to appoint someone from Ashaiman and to fix our deplorable road network. Until these promises are fulfilled, we don’t know how to convince the masses for 2028,” he stressed.
Mr Twumasi stated that appointing someone from Ashaiman does not necessarily have to be their MP. “Anyone competent enough in any role will help settle this,” he added.
With tensions rising, the 2nd Deputy Constituency Youth Organizer, Regina Agbagba, called on President Mahama to intervene before the situation spirals out of control.
“The youth have made it clear that our MP, Ernest Norgbey, has worked tirelessly, helping the NDC secure over 69,000 votes in the 2024 elections.
“Apart from President Mahama, Sammy Gyamfi, Ato Forson, Kwame Agbodza, Asiedu Nketia, and others made the same promise,” she recounted.
Expressing her frustration, she questioned Ashaiman’s role in the party. “Are we only good for demonstrations? Is that all we can do?
“The success the party attained here was by sweat and blood, with sleepless nights and lives put on the line. Ashaiman deserves better,” she cried.
Deputy Women’s Organizer, Beatrice Esinam Agbeko Teye, credited party executives for preventing what could have been a more troubling situation.
“We can only ask our constituents to remain calm. They want Ashaiman’s contribution to be recognised, and we trust in the president’s decision,” she said.
Meanwhile, Constituency Organiser Mark Apetor noted that beyond seeking appointments, the teeming youth are also demanding employment opportunities, particularly in local factories.
Despite efforts by party executives to ease tensions, there are fears that the youth may soon run out of patience.
The police have since stepped in to contain the situation and maintain peace in Ashaiman.
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