CPP Patriots members picks nomination forms

Accra, Oct. 11, GNA - Scores of leading members of the Patriots, a political pressure group that aims at making patriotism fashionable again and revitalize the Convention Peoples Party (CPP), on Thursday picked nomination forms to contest for various positions within the party.

The leading members who picked nomination documents were Dr Kwaku Osafo an economist and Mr Bright Akwetey, a lawyer, who are both contesting the flag bearership slot, Mr Kosi Dede for the General Secretary and Mr Yoofi Thompson, National Organiser. In a show of comradeship the Patriots whose slogan is "Ghana Before Self and Ghana Deserves Better," arrived at the CPP National Headquarters in a convey of vehicles and vociferous party supporters who danced to brass brand music and Kpalogo music.

Other positions being sought are Vice Chairperson, Naa Koodia and Dr. Abu Sakara are contesting position of vice chairperson. The membership of the Patriots, who described themselves as committed and dedicated to Nkrumaism, includes leading members of the CPP, students and Ghanaians of all status.

Speaking to newsmen after presenting to the aspirants with nomination documents, Professor Nii Noi Dowuona, CPP General Secretary, commended the aspirants, especially the flag bearer contenders, for demonstrating unity.

The CPP opened nominations for presidential candidate and national executive positions on Monday October 8. Vetting of aspirants for the party's flag bearer position would start immediately after the filing of nominations.

Prof. Dowuona urged the aspirants to maintain party cohesion and unity throughout the campaign period and beyond, as the party would need all its soldiers for the battle of Election 2008. Speaking to the Ghana News Agency, Mr Akwetey emphasised the need for inculcation of patriotism into the Ghanaian society as, according to him, Ghana had lost the spirit of patriotism. As a result good governance has been reduced to machinations, intrigues and, at times, lies.

He said: "We look upon Nkrumah as the foremost patriot and we stretch our arms to all Ghanaians, especially the youth and women to join us in our genuine quest for true political and economic freedom and justice."

Mr. Akwetey called on all Ghanaians to support the CPP, which had stretched forth its arms to "all those who labour and are heavy laden," to come home and support the drive to economically empower Ghana. Dr Osafo said the state of the Party now required the fullest cooperation of all members, including the members of the National Executive Committee, Parliamentarians and the rank and file of the Party as we move towards the third National Delegates' Congress. He urged other contestants to conduct their campaigns with decorum and show respect to the position of other contenders. Dr Osafo reminded aspirants that their conduct before during and after the congress must serve to promote unity and peace and not create disharmony.

He pledged his commitment to build a strong and united CPP capable of winning Elections 2008.

"The most essential prerequisite to win the Elections 2008, however, is to rebuild the party structures and make them functional." Meanwhile the following people had so far picked nominations forms: Dr. Paa Kwesi Nduom, former Minister of Private Sector Reforms and Mr. George Opersika Aggudey CPP Presidential Candidate for Elections 2004 for the flag bearership slot; Mr Laddi Nylander and Mr Eddi Egala for the chairman; Madam Araba Bensti-Enchi and Mr, Kodjo Armah for Vice Chairperson; Mr Micheal Nunoo, Mr. Serchel Komba and Mr. Ekow Donkor for the General Secretary.

Others are Hajia Hamdatu Harma and Ms. Rosemary Anim for the Women Organiser slot, and Mr. Kofi Badioo and Francis Opai-Tetteh for the National Youth Organiser. 11 Oct. 07