Those who swim against the tide in NPP risk being swept away - Freddie Blay
The First Vice-Chairman of the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP), Freddie Blay, says the tidal waves of the party are moving in a certain direction and those who stand in their way risk being swept away.
He said some persons who are pretending not to realize the direction of the tide can imperil their lives by swimming against it.
Mr Blay was speaking to Joy FM's Super Morning Show host Kojo Yankson on the tempestuous and turbulent development in the party.
Refraining from speaking directly on the matter that has caused controversy in the matter, the experienced politician said “To me it is very obvious – I don't want to say it – but it is obvious that our party is moving towards a certain direction – I am happy; I am glad; it will bring us unity.”
A super delegates' congress to elect a presidential candidate is only 11 days away but the opposition party is in turmoil.
Party Chariman Paul Afoko and General Secretary Kwabena Agyapong, both known partisans of flagbearer contender, Alan Kyerematen, are believed to be doing everything possible to tilt the scales in his favour.
Lead contender for the flagbearership slot and two-time presidential candidate, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has received massive endorsements from present and former Members of Parliament, regional chairmen, and other notable heavyweights in the party while Mr. Kyerematen's campaign is believed to be foundering.
The contest, the high stakes, and the history of the national executive has bred deep seated mistrust amongst the national executive who are supposed to manage the affairs of the party.
Apart from Messrs Afoko and Agyapong, the rest of the executive are believed to be loyalists of Mr. Akufo-Addo.
Probably aware that they may not get the backing of the majority in their decision to make certain changes in the party, the Chairman and General Secretary have resorted to acting alone – a development that has infuriated the other executives who accuse the two of egregious constitutional violations.
The dismissal of Finance Director, Opare Hammond, the directive to Deputy Communications Director, Perry Okudzeto to proceed on leave and the subsequent appointment of Deputy Directors of Communications, all without the consent of the other executives, annoyed them a great deal.
Their protestations and accusations in the media provoked a press conference by Mr Afoko and Mr Agyapong Tuesday.
The simmering tensions boiled over, leading to a temporary hold-up of the press conference.
After violent confrontations at the party's headquarters, Mr Blay said he was convinced when the dust settles, the opposition party will rally around the presidential candidate for the 2016 elections.