Tensions are mounting in the Eastern Region as the Akyem Abuakwa Council of Zongo Chiefs, in collaboration with concerned youth groups, has strongly rejected the President’s nominee for the position of  Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Abuakwa South Municipal Assembly.

At a press conference held in Kyebi—the traditional and political hub of the Akyem Abuakwa area—leaders of the Zongo community expressed deep dissatisfaction with the nomination of Nana Addo Aikins Jnr. as MCE. The council described the decision as a serious slight to loyal grassroots members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), who they say have sacrificed for the party over the decades.

Leading the protest was Chief Alhaji Abubakar Umar, Kyebi Zongo Chief and President of the Akyem Abuakwa Council of Zongo Chiefs.

In an emotionally charged speech, Chief Umar described the nomination as “a stab in the back” to the Zongo people, many of whom have supported the NDC unwaveringly.

Fighting back tears, he lamented what he called a lack of recognition for loyalty and long-standing service.

At the heart of the discontent is the exclusion of Alhaji Sanusi Mohammed, a respected figure in the Zongo community and a veteran of the NDC.

Alhaji Sanusi has been a committed party member since 1992, previously serving as constituency chairman in 2018, and standing as the NDC parliamentary candidate in 2012, 2015, and 2020.

His supporters argue that his track record made him the most qualified and deserving candidate for the MCE position.

The press conference also featured youth leaders and activists, including Abdul Raman Kafando, convener of the aggrieved youth group.

Kafando criticised the nomination as a betrayal of trust, warning that the continued sidelining of the Zongo community could have serious political consequences.

“This is not just about one man,” he said.

“This is about our voice, our identity, and the future of the Zongo people.

We demand an immediate reversal of this decision.”

While emotions ran high, Chief Umar urged the youth to remain calm and refrain from violence. “We have made our position clear. We expect the leadership to listen,” he stated.