National Democratic Congress (NDC) National Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketiah says he has no regrets over the party’s decision to reshuffle its parliamentary leadership while in opposition, insisting the move was necessary despite the controversy it generated.
The unprecedented reshuffle, announced ahead of the 2024 general election, saw Haruna Iddrisu replaced as Minority Leader by Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, while Muntaka Mohammed Mubarak was removed as Minority Chief Whip.
The decision marked the first time an opposition party in Ghana had undertaken such a significant leadership overhaul in Parliament, sparking widespread debate within the NDC and the broader political landscape.
Speaking on JoyNews’ PM Express on Tuesday, Mr Asiedu Nketiah said he has no difficulty discussing the circumstances surrounding the reshuffle because he merely stated the truth.
“It doesn’t change the truth, whether some people accept it or not. The truth remains the truth.”
“As I’ve said, a rose described by whatever adjectives will still smell sweet. So I always want to stay on the side of truth. Once I say something and it is true, whether you accept it or not, that is it. I’m okay with that. I sleep and sleep well.”
Responding to suggestions that the matter should have remained private because some people felt offended, the NDC Chairman said he did not believe anyone had reason to be hurt.
“I don’t think that anybody ought to be hurt. I didn’t think that it was reasonable for anybody to be hurt.”
He argued that anyone who listened to his full explanation would realise it was “much ado about nothing.”
Mr Asiedu Nketiah also dismissed claims that the reshuffle damaged his relationship with Haruna Iddrisu and Muntaka Mohammed Mubarak, saying he remains on good terms with both.
“Very close. We worked together.”
He explained that his earlier comments were intended to discourage party supporters from creating divisions where none existed.
“I’m cool with my junior brothers Haruna and Muntaka, and we are moving together in Accra.”
To reinforce his point, he disclosed that he had spoken with Haruna Iddrisu the previous day and remains in regular contact with Muntaka Mohammed Mubarak.
Addressing criticism that the reshuffle was unprecedented in Ghana’s opposition politics, Mr Asiedu Nketiah said every significant political development must begin somewhere.
“There must be a first time for something.”
He maintained that he would always pursue decisions he believes are necessary to achieve results, regardless of public criticism.
“If I believe that this is the right way of achieving my results, I will go for it, even though heaven’s fall.”
Mr Asiedu Nketiah acknowledged that Muntaka initially reacted strongly to the decision and even described it as “a coup,” but said such responses were expected when difficult decisions are made.
“If I know that that cut is necessary to heal you, I’m good with it.”
He added that the two now joke about the incident, recounting that after congratulating Muntaka on his appointment as Interior Minister, he jokingly asked him not to have him arrested. According to Mr Asiedu Nketiah, Muntaka replied in jest that before he reached Nsawam Prison, he would probably have been removed from office himself.
