Unsuccessful majority caucus reshuffle was orchestrated by Bawumia – Asante Otchere

Dr Jonathan Asante Otchere, a political science lecturer at the University of Cape Coast (UCC) in the Central Region, has raised concerns about the internal dynamics of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP), suggesting that the recent failed Majority Caucus reshuffle signals underlying issues within the party.

According to Dr Asante Otchere, the events that unfolded in Parliament on Monday, February 19, 2024, were indicative of a thwarted palace coup, asserting that the unity of the party is teetering on the edge.

He went on to allege that the unsuccessful palace coup was orchestrated by the current leader of the party, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia.

The political science lecturer contended that the failed coup aimed to position known sympathisers of Vice President Bawumia following the announcement of the members of the National Campaign Committee for 2024 general elections.

Dr Otchere emphasised his viewpoint, stating that there is more unrest to be expected, indicating also an attempt to remove certain leaders from their roles within the Majority Caucus.

In further analysis, Dr Otchere pointed to the appointment of Madam Lydia Seyram Alhassan as Minister of Sanitation and Water Resources, suggesting that this move was orchestrated to disrupt the leadership in anticipation of the intended reshuffle.

He emphasised that this was just the beginning of internal challenges within the party.

Dr Asante made these assertions during an interview on Accra 100.5 FM's evening news on Monday, February 19, 2024.

Meanwhile, the Majority Caucus in Parliament has unequivocally refuted speculations regarding potential changes to its leadership, asserting its commitment to maintaining stability and unity within its ranks.

Joseph Osei Owusu, the First Deputy Speaker of Parliament and Member of Parliament for Bekwai, popularly known as Joewise, addressed concerns surrounding purported shifts in leadership, categorically denying any such alterations.

He affirmed, “The publications that are going around are false, the majority caucus has not made any changes to its leadership, and the majority caucus has not contemplated making any changes to its leadership and we want to tell you to ignore any such publication.”

“We are confident in the leadership that we have and the status quo shall remain.”

Mr Osei Owusu emphasised the Caucus's exclusive authority to make decisions regarding its leadership, dismissing external attempts to influence the process.

He stressed the importance of preserving cohesion within the caucus to effectively address legislative matters and advance the government's agenda.

These statements come in response to media reports suggesting potential changes in the Majority leadership, including the succession of Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, the current Majority Leader and Minister for Parliamentary Affairs, by Alexander Afenyo-Markin, the Deputy Majority Leader. While Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu's ministerial role remains uncertain, he is anticipated to chair the NPP's 2024 Manifesto Committee.

Reports say the President is expected to meet with the Caucus this evening at the seat of government, Jubilee House to discuss the aborted reshuffle

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