Mr Umar Sanda has forfeited his membership with the National Democratic Congress (NDC) following his decision to contest the upcoming Ayawaso East by-election as an independent candidate.
According to Mr Sanda, his decision was driven by overwhelming calls from his constituents.
Reasons for Withdrawal from the NDC Primary
He stated that he withdrew from the party’s internal primary because the process was “heavily monetised”.
Despite being a dedicated grassroots member of the NDC, he found the GH₵45,000 filing fee charged by the party to be excessive.
He also alleged that other candidates in the primary—which was ultimately won by Baba Jamal—engaged in vote-buying.
He noted that he simply did not have the financial resources to compete in such an environment.
Speaking on Frontline on Rainbow Radio 87.5FM, Mr Sanda revealed that the constituents prefer him as their representative.
He said that the community are so invested in his candidacy that they personally sponsored his filing with the Electoral Commission and are currently funding his campaign.
While he acknowledged that party rules dictate an automatic forfeiture of membership for any member who contests as an independent, he maintained his emotional connection to the party.
He told host Kwabena Agyapong that as a founding member of the NDC in the constituency, he still cherishes the party, and “that love remains in [his] heart.”
Mr Sanda remains emphatic that he will win the by-election and represent the people in Parliament. He also assured supporters that, if elected, he intends to caucus with the NDC.
“I am not shaken by what they have done. I am optimistic of victory. It is the community that has pushed me to contest. Constituents in the communities and those abroad are the ones sponsoring me, so I am not afraid of losing. I will win the election and be sworn in as the MP.”
He concluded by stating that the “grounds are fertile” for an independent win, believing that his years of sacrifice for the community will finally be rewarded at the polls.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
