Opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) MP for Kumbungu is backing the ‘YES’ campaign in the December 17, Referendum, contrary to direct orders of the party.
Ras Mubarak says the arguments against the amendment of Article 55/3 of the Constitution are weak and unacceptable.
The amendment seeks to repeal the provision in the Constitution that bars political parties from elections at District Assemblies and lower government unit.
The NDC says amid other concerns, introducing partisan politics to the assemblies would bring the unpleasantness of national politics to the assemblies.
Any previous stance taken by a party member is overruled, the Director of Elections for the NDC, Elvis Afriyie Ankrah, told Joy FM on Monday.
However, the Kumbungu MP who recently lost the bid to run for re-election on the party’s ticket has refused to fold.
Mubarak was defeated by Dr Hamza Adam, a lecturer at the University of Development Studies (UDS) in an election he said was influenced by money.
Meanwhile, Minority Leader, Haruna Iddrisu has warned of sanctions for MPs who do not fall in line with the party’s position.
The NDC says its decision to oppose the amendment stems from thorough deliberations and consultations led by local government expert, Prof. Kwamena Ahwoi.
The decision to hold the Referendum to amend Article 55/3 which is an entrenched provision came up in the process of amending Article 243/1 in Parliament.
The latter would allow Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives to be elected in Universal Adult Suffrage, taking away the appointing power of the President.
However, to allow political parties field candidates when this happens, Ghanaians are being asked to change the law that bars partisan politics at that level.
Not less than 40 per cent of eligible voters must turn vote and 75 per cent must endorse the amendment for it to pass.
Source;Fiilafmonline/JoyNews
