CPP Chairman replies NPP Chairman

Dr. Abubakar Al-Hassan, National Chairman of the Convention People's Party (CPP) on Friday described the justification of the 1966 Coup by Mr Haruna Esseku, National Chairman of the ruling NPP as a politically diabolical move to derail and destabilise the CPP. "The tantrum of Mr. Esseku at the NPP's recent Congress/Conference denying the relevance of the CPP and justifying the Central Intelligence Agency of America's inspired 1966 Coup are nothing more but the groaning of a political leadership, which has not been able to keep faith with the masses," the CPP Chairman stated.

Dr Al-Hassan's reaction was contained in a statement delivered at a Press Conference in Accra on the commemoration of the 53rd Anniversary of the declaration of Positive Action by Osagyefo Dr Kwame Nkrumah. He challenged the NPP's assertion to be proponents and upholders of democratic principle and yet in ano! ther breadth turned round to justify military overthrow of a democratically elected government. He said the party would not be detracted from its cause of social justice and prosperity for all by such blatant diversionary manouvres, stressing "we are aware of some diabolical moves, including the use of monetary enticements to infiltrate our ranks in order to destabilise our great party."

"The CPP leadership will not want to link this with Mr. Esseku's recent utterances, however the lesson this teaches us as party is that we need to exercise a high level of discipline within our rank." Dr Al-Hassan appealed to all Nkrumahists and progressive forces to uphold the greatest sense of discipline and strict adherence to Constitutional democratic principles. He also warned some elements within the party who disregard laid down rules and regulations and have been organising meetings outside the framework of the party's Constitution.

The CPP Chairman said, "the Central ! Committee will not hesitate to call people to order when necessary." H e also encouraged the youth to get actively involved in the organisation of the party and contest for positions to bring about desired leadership for rejuvenation of the party for election 2004.