- Madina Constituency Candidate Arrested
- NDC Alleges Campaign Poster Deception
- Bail Hearing Adjourned to Oct 18
Tensions are escalating in the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Madina constituency following the arrest and remand of Awal Mohammed, an independent parliamentary candidate, on allegations of dishonesty and deception.
The NDC formally filed a complaint with the Madina Police, accusing Mohammed of using former President John Dramani Mahama’s image alongside his own on campaign posters. This misleading tactic is said to have given voters the impression that he is running on the NDC ticket, prompting outrage among party members who view it as an attempt to manipulate their supporters.
The situation became so charged that violent confrontations were narrowly avoided. In response to the outcry, the NDC pressed for action, resulting in Mohammed’s arrest and subsequent appearance in court.
At the Adenta Circuit Court, NDC’s Madina Constituency Chairman, Secretary, and their legal team presented the case against Mohammed, who has yet to respond to the charges. The court has adjourned the hearing until Friday, October 18, 2024, when it will rule on Mohammed’s bail application.
Incumbent MP and lawyer Francis Xavier Sosu is facing scrutiny for his involvement in the matter. Critics argue that Sosu’s legal influence has expedited the action taken against Mohammed, raising concerns among the candidate’s supporters, who view the arrest as an effort to silence opposition ahead of the upcoming parliamentary elections.
The Madina constituency is a pivotal battleground in the 2024 elections, with candidates from both the NDC and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) fiercely contesting control.
Background of the Controversy
Francis Xavier Sosu, the current MP, serves on the Constitutional, Legal, and Parliamentary Affairs Committee, as well as the Appointments Committee. His involvement has sparked questions regarding potential conflicts of interest in the case.
While the NDC asserts that it is acting to protect its image from misrepresentation, supporters of Mohammed claim that the party and Sosu are undermining his campaign through legal maneuvers.
