Atubiga withdraws from NDC flagbearer race and calls for support for Mahama

Stephen Atubiga has withdrawn from the the flagbearer contest of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) and called for support for former President John Dramani Mahama to lead the party to Election 2020.

Mr Stephen Atubiga communicated his decision to the leadership of the party through a letter he sent to the General Secretary, Mr Johnson Asiedu Nketiah.

Mr Asiedu Nketiah read the letter at the party headquarters on Tuesday afternoon, reports Victor Kwawukume.

Meanwhile, Mr Goosie Tanoh has filed his nomination papers for the contest. He filed it on Tuesday.

Related stories:

Court places injunction on NDC flagbearer election

NDC presidential hopefuls chasing me to withdraw from the race – Stephen Atubiga

Mr Stephen Atubiga in his letter to the National Executive Committee (NEC) explained: "Having submitted myself to counsel, prayers and direction, I wish to withdraw from the NDC flagbearship race ahead of the 2020 general elections.

"After a fathomless deliberation and consultation with wellwishers, and my team, I have decided to throw my weight behind His Excellency John Dramani Mahama."

"I want to personally thank my brother honourable Haruna Iddrisu for his wise counsel and brotherly advice. My gratitude to the party, council of elders for their intervention and roles played regarding the upcoming flagbearership elections of the great NDC.

"In a lengthy discussion with His Excellency John Mahama, I can conclude that his vision matches mine. He gave me an assurance of pulling the party along, building party offices throughout the constituencies, creating jobs, empowering the youth and ensuring capacity building for the youth.

"Upon further discussion, he also stated unequivocally his desire to restructure the SHS system, so as to make it better. Our whole discussion surrounded developmental plans to push the country forward."

"The era where items and monies meant for party work were hoarded by some persons is one of the things he has promised to completely annihilate as far as our party is concerned. I believe all aspirants have what it takes to lead this country, having observed and listened to them all, John Mahama is the one who can give us victory.

"JDM stands tall as far as the peoples choice on the ground is concerned. When it comes to logistics, mobilisation for our party, JDM stands tall. Bad governance of the NPP has made JDM a 'god' every Ghanaian is worshipping today. If I, Stephen Atubiga could go to prison for John Mahama to be president, it is for the love of the party.

"I can with no hesitation, sacrifice my ambition for him to win us power come 2020, for the love of the party. Running for this flagbearership position are many very able and committed men, their position may be varied but their hearts and ideas are all to move the party and the country forward. I wish them all the best of luck and hope that they will come out stronger than ever after this election. The NDC stands tall at the end of the day, God bless us all," the letter concluded.

Writer's email: enoch.frimpong@graphic.com.gh 

Follow @enochfrimpong Follow @Graphicgh