The Upper East Regional Communications Officer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Abdallah Jonathan Salifu, has justified the decision to appoint a replacement for the late Bongo District Chief Executive (DCE), Joseph Akasake Abaa, describing it as necessary and appropriately handled in a quiet and solemn manner.
His remarks follow the nomination of Diana Asoketarige Ayamga as the new DCE for Bongo, pending approval by Assembly Members. The decision has sparked some criticism, with concerns that the appointment should have been delayed until after the burial of the late DCE, scheduled for this weekend.
Speaking on State of Our Nation on Tuesday, Mr. Salifu emphasized that the timing and manner of the nomination were intended to prevent confusion and avoid unnecessary tension.
He acknowledged that prior to the announcement, several individuals had been actively seeking to attract the President’s attention for consideration for the position.
Mr. Salifu noted that the President was obligated to nominate a replacement and that acting promptly, while maintaining a low profile, was the most appropriate course of action.
The nomination of Madam Ayamga also marks a milestone, as she becomes the first woman to be appointed as DCE for Bongo. Her appointment brings the total number of female DCEs in the Upper East Region to three.
“The manner in which the late DCE exited is a bit sorrowful and the President needed to act in a very quiet manner and I think the he has done just done that. The President just had to act to make sure he had a good replacement for Joseph Akasake Abaa.”
According to Mr. Salifu, Madam Ayamga is an experienced grassroots party executive, currently serving as the Women’s Organizer at the Zorkor Awaa polling station. He described her as highly competent and fit for the role.
“We are hoping that her coming will further unite the party in Bongo, her coming will push Bongo forward by way of development and I know she is competent and I must add that she is also a party person. She is currently the woman organizer for the Awaa Polling Station.”
