The Director of Elections and IT of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Mahdi Gibril, has clarified a number of issues surrounding the party’s upcoming constituency executive elections, including resignation requirements, eligibility criteria and the Zongo Caucus.
According to Mahdi, the NDC has put in place arrangements for its executive elections, with particular attention to individuals seeking to contest constituency executive positions.
He explained that once a person decides to contest a constituency executive position, the individual would have to resign from their position as a branch executive.
Mahdi further clarified that a resignation letter must accompany the filing of nomination, rather than being submitted at the time of picking nomination forms.
He explained that this is necessary because a person could pick a nomination form and later change their mind about contesting.
He added that even where a candidate fails to submit a resignation letter, the matter would be referred to the vetting committee for consideration.
Mahdi also disclosed that the party has, for now, decided not to impose an age limit on candidates seeking to contest, provided they meet the basic eligibility requirements.
He said any candidate who is above 18 years, is of sound mind and possesses a valid party card with dues paid up to date can contest or sign for a candidate intending to contest.
Addressing questions about the NDC’s Zongo Caucus, Mahdi explained that the caucus is not intended exclusively for Muslims.
According to him, the structure is meant to represent all settlers in Zongo communities and is not based on religious affiliation.
He therefore admonished coordinators to make room for all eligible candidates to access the necessary assistance without discrimination.
Mahdi also disclosed that there would be no coordinators elections this year as it has deliberately been suspended till after the national elections.
On the party’s membership register, Mahdi expressed optimism that virtually every valid NDC member have their photograph captured in the register, except those who did not submit photographs during the registration exercise.
He said any other errors identified in the register could be addressed through editing at the various party offices.
Mahdi further indicated that about 95% of the current register is accurate, underscoring the party’s confidence in the integrity of its membership database.
