The Ejisu Constituency Organiser of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Sani Shaibu, has defended the decision by some party supporters to lock up the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) office in the area, citing frustration over what he describes as the sidelining of local party loyalists.
Speaking in an interview on Accra-based UTV, Shaibu said NDC members in Ejisu worked tirelessly during the 2024 elections to help the party secure victory in the Ashanti Region, with assurances from party leadership that their efforts would be recognised through appointments.
According to him, tensions rose after reports emerged that a new NHIA manager had been appointed to the Ejisu office without consultation with local party structures. He claimed the appointee is not known within the constituency and has no ties to the area.
“We worked hard for the party to come to power, and we were assured that our efforts would be rewarded with jobs,” he said. “Now we are being told that someone has been appointed as NHIA manager, but we don’t even know who the person is or where he is coming from. He is not one of us.”
Shaibu argued that the decision overlooks competent individuals within the constituency who are capable of occupying the position and delivering effectively.
He explained that after the previous officer was transferred to Kumasi, many residents expected the replacement to be selected from Ejisu.
“A lot of people here are competent and fit for the job. We thought an indigene would be appointed, but that has not happened,” he stated.
He warned that failure to address the concerns of grassroots members could weaken support for the party ahead of the 2028 general elections.
“If we don’t wake up, in 2028 we won’t be able to go out to campaign or mobilise the youth for the party,” he cautioned.
Shaibu maintained that the action to lock up the NHIA office was intended to draw attention to their concerns, adding that they are ready to cooperate with the police if invited.
“I don’t mind if I am arrested. We are ready to respond if the police call us, but we expect the leadership to also engage us and do the right thing,” he added.
The incident has sparked debate over internal party dynamics and the balance between political appointments and grassroots expectations.
