NDC moves to strip Rawlings of title

In a bid to improve its public image and to present itself as a caring and tolerant party, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) is set to make major amendments to its Constitution.

The proposed amendment, which enjoys the support of the vast majority of the party's followers, will automatically see radical changes in the leadership. NDC insiders have told the Evening News that at its national congress, the clause in the party's constitution, which confers on former President Rawlings, the title of Leader and Founder, will be expunged.


"When passed, Rawlings will then have no constitutional role to play in our party" the insider said.


It is reliably learnt that the decision to abolish the position of leader and founder followed the numerous resolutions presented to the national re-organisation committees of the party which recently toured the length and breath of the country to get the views of the rank and file as to how the party should be re-organised, after its defeat in the last election.


According to the Evening News report, majority of the supporters was of the view that the leadership of the party made a mistake during the campaign in the last election by presenting Rawlings as the presidential candidate instead of Professor Mills.

"From now on the new NDC is going to be built on real democratic principles and structures. Every post in the party would be contested for, including the position of a flagbearer. No more acclamations and declarations."


Rawlings made a declaration in Swedru that he would support the candidature of his vice, Professor Mills in the last election. Although party faithfuls defended that declaration which was known as the "Swedru declaration", they now think it is one of the reasons why the party lost the election.


Shortly after its poor showing at the 2000 elections, the NDC charged veteran lawyer, Dr. Obed Asamoah to see to the re-organisation of the party. The Committee has so far toured all the regions to collate and collect views on how to revamp the party and win the next election.