Obuasi SHTS: NDC reverses withdrawal directive, allows embattled chairman aspirant to contest

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has changed its mind and allowed embattled Obuasi Senior High Technical School headmaster Zakaria Abdulai to run for the constituency chairmanship race. Deputy General Secretary Mustapha Gbande announced to Joy News’ PM Express on Monday that Abdulai can file and contest while sexual abuse allegations against him continue.

Gbande warned that even if Abdulai wins the election, he could still be removed if found guilty. The decision came after Abdulai appeared before the party’s Functional Executive Committee. Gbande explained that the party needed to hear his response before deciding its next move. The party’s deputy communications director earlier stated that Abdulai would be disqualified if he contested.

However, the committee reconsidered this position after reviewing ongoing processes, including a ministerial directive and an investigation by the Ghana Education Service. Abdulai had also filed lawsuits against individuals connected to the matter. The allegations are being examined in Manasseh Azure Awuni’s documentary, Inside the Dreaded Headmaster’s Bungalow.

Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu directed the Ghana Education Service (GES) to suspend Abdulai on October 13, pending investigations. The party wants to protect Abdulai's rights while allowing the investigations to proceed. Gbande emphasized that permission to contest does not settle the allegations and that Abdulai must present his case if found guilty.