NDC reverses directive, allowing Obuasi headmaster to contest chairmanship amid abuse probe

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has reversed its earlier directive that required Zakaria Abdulai, the headmaster of Obuasi Senior High Technical School, to withdraw from the race for the constituency chairmanship. According to MyJoyOnline, Deputy General Secretary Mustapha Gbande confirmed on Monday that the party's Functional Executive Committee allowed Abdulai to proceed with his candidacy while investigations into allegations of sexual abuse involving female students continue. The decision marks a shift from a preliminary directive that threatened disqualification if the long-serving constituency secretary contested the internal election.

Gbande explained that the leadership reconsidered its position after hearing Abdulai's account before the committee. The party weighed several factors, including a documentary by Manasseh Azure Awuni titled Inside the Dreaded Headmaster’s Bungalow, a directive from Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu, and an ongoing investigation by the Ghana Education Service. The minister had directed the GES on October 13 to suspend Abdulai pending these inquiries. Abdulai also informed the committee that he had issued legal writs against individuals connected to the matter, though Gbande noted uncertainty regarding whether these suits specifically concerned defamation.

Despite the green light to contest, Gbande warned that an election victory would not shield Abdulai from disciplinary action. The party intends to monitor the investigations closely, with the General Secretary following the process at every stage. Gbande stated that if substantial findings emerge during the probe, the NDC could intervene and remove Abdulai even after he wins the chairmanship. He emphasized that the party aims to balance the aspirant's rights with the need to protect the integrity of the ongoing legal and administrative processes.

The NDC's approach is guided by its constitution and the public interest, aiming to restore confidence in public schools while protecting the children involved. Gbande noted that the party would proceed with caution to avoid undermining the triggered processes. If the allegations are established, the party plans to sanction Abdulai based on the findings, potentially allowing him to face the law if the internal discipline proves insufficient. This strategy reflects a desire to make an informed decision rather than acting prematurely on the gravity of the allegations.