By Lawrence Odoom
Professor Yarhands Dissou Arthur, Dean of the Faculty of Applied Sciences and Mathematics Education at the Akenten Appiah-Menka University of Skills Training and Entrepreneurial Development (AMMUSTED) in Kumasi, has suggested to President John Dramani Mahama that appointing at least two persons from each constituency as presidential staffers would greatly benefit the party.
This move, according to Professor Yarhands, would bring fair representation of the people to the doorstep of the government.
“Reports from some constituencies with expectations of having their MP’s or some good people of their constituency appointed by the president is not pleasant for the National Democratic Congress,” Professor Yarhands noted. “The destructions in these constituencies are in a bad taste, and it’s a call for some strategic action to cool down the tempers of these constituents. I suggest to President Mahama to appoint at least two persons each from the various constituencies as presidential staffers.”
Professor Yarhands believes that this approach would allow grassroots party members and opinion leaders, such as chiefs, pastors, and Imams, to have direct contact with the presidency. This would enable them to communicate specific developmental needs and complement the work of members of parliament. “This would not only foster greater inclusivity but also provide the presidency with valuable insights into the unique challenges and opportunities faced by each constituency,” Professor Yarhands explained. “The presidency can tap into local expertise and develop more targeted solutions to address the nation’s pressing issues.”
The suggestion comes amidst unrest among some National Democratic Congress (NDC) youth groups, who feel that President Mahama has not appointed enough representatives from their constituencies to his government. In the Ho Central constituency, for instance, some youth broke into the party’s office, destroying property and equipment. Similar incidents have occurred in other parts of the country, including the Bole Bamboo area, a stronghold of the party.
