Politics

Asiedu Nketiah: Umaru Sanda No Longer NDC Member Ahead of Ayawaso East Poll

The National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, has formally confirmed that independent parliamentary hopeful Mohammed Umaru Sanda has ceased to be a member of the party, declaring that the opportunity for reconciliation has passed.

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Speaking at the party’s final rally in the Ayawaso East constituency on Sunday, March 1, 2026, Mr Asiedu Nketiah called on supporters to unite behind the NDC’s official candidate, Baba Jamal, in the by-election scheduled for March 3.

The by-election became necessary following the death of the sitting MP, Mahama Naser Toure, who passed away in January while receiving treatment at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital. The race has drawn candidates from the NDC, the New Patriotic Party, the Liberal People’s Party and two independents.

Addressing party faithful, Mr Asiedu Nketiah described Mr Sanda’s decision to contest the seat as an independent candidate as a direct violation of party rules and constitutional provisions. He stressed that such an action automatically nullified his membership.

While acknowledging their long-standing association, the NDC chairman maintained that party discipline must prevail over personal relationships. He noted that Mr Sanda had previously been given a chance to step down from the race and publicly reaffirm his loyalty to the party but did not take that opportunity.

According to Mr Asiedu Nketiah, even if Mr Sanda seeks to return to the party after the election, he would be barred from contesting any internal position for approximately eight years — effectively until 2032. He indicated that party regulations impose strict consequences for members who defy officially endorsed candidates.

In emphasising his point, the chairman used both cautionary and religious references, suggesting that decisions made in defiance of party structures often carry long-term repercussions. Nonetheless, he described Mr Sanda as a “brother,” signalling that personal ties remain intact despite the political split.

Earlier, in a statement issued on February 17, the NDC announced that Mr Sanda had forfeited his membership by disregarding the party’s directive. The statement further prohibited him from using the party’s name, logo, colours, symbols or any related intellectual property in his campaign activities.

With just days to the polls, the development underscores internal tensions within the constituency as the NDC seeks to consolidate its support base and retain the Ayawaso East seat.