John Akutam joins race for NDC Upper East deputy regional secretary

John A. Akutam, popularly known as MCKENZIE, has declared his intention to contest the position of Deputy Regional Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Upper East Region, bringing his grassroots political experience, professional background and entrepreneurial interests into the party’s emerging regional executive contest.

Akutam, who is campaigning under the slogan “The New Voice for the Voiceless,” is seeking to present himself to delegates as a fresh voice capable of contributing to the strengthening of the party’s structures and deepening engagement with members at the grassroots.

His candidature was announced through campaign materials bearing his name and the NDC identity as the party prepares for its internal elections.

Known popularly as MCKENZIE, John A. Akutam has been involved in grassroots political activities and previously served as the NDC Youth Organiser for the Zebilla Constituency, where he participated in engagements aimed at mobilising young people and strengthening the party’s grassroots structures.

In January 2023, Akutam led a youth engagement in the Zebilla Constituency involving party members from various branches. The engagement focused on strengthening unity and mobilisation among the youth as the party prepared for the 2024 general elections.

His activities have not been limited to politics. Akutam is also a young cybersecurity engineer and entrepreneur with interests in a number of business ventures.

He is involved in poultry farming, among other entrepreneurial activities, reflecting his interest in technology, agriculture and private enterprise.

His combination of political involvement, professional training and business interests is expected to form part of the broader profile he presents to delegates as he seeks to move from constituency-level political organisation into regional leadership.

Akutam's name also featured prominently in a controversy surrounding a reported appointment to the Youth Employment Agency (YEA) in the Bawku West District in 2025.

Some NDC youth in Zebilla reportedly locked up the district YEA office in protest over what they described as attempts to interfere with Akutam’s reported appointment as District Director. The protesters displayed a copy of an appointment letter bearing his name and called for the appointment to be maintained.

The Member of Parliament for Zebilla, Ebenezer Ndebilla Alumire, subsequently denied having any personal issue with Akutam and said he had no knowledge of the reported appointment. He indicated that he would not oppose the appointment if Akutam had indeed been appointed.

Akutam's political journey and professional background now converge in his bid for the Deputy Regional Secretary position, a role that requires strong organisational, administrative and communication skills.

His campaign slogan, “The New Voice for the Voiceless,” is expected to be central to his message as he engages delegates across the Upper East Region.

The aspirant is expected to outline his vision for the regional secretariat and explain how he intends to contribute to improved coordination, communication and grassroots participation if given the mandate.

For supporters of his candidature, the contest represents an opportunity to bring a younger perspective and professional experience into the NDC’s regional leadership structure.