The governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) has begun a nationwide re-organisation drive ahead of its upcoming internal elections, which will see the selection of new officers from the branch to the national level.

As part of the process, party functionaries have intensified engagements with grassroots members, setting the stage for what is expected to be a fiercely contested election across all levels.

The National Youth Organiser, George Opare Addo, who also serves as Minister for Youth Development and Empowerment, has embarked on a nationwide tour to interact with the party’s youth base and gather their concerns. 

In a recent Facebook post, he indicated that he has already visited the Greater Accra and Volta regions.

However, a notable development emerging from the tour is the conspicuous absence of his widely regarded close associate, Okai Mintah. 

Mr Mintah, who is currently Board Chairman of the National Service Authority and Chairman of the NDC National Youth Working Committee, has traditionally accompanied the Youth Organiser and his deputies on such engagements.

But his strange absence during the tour marks a departure from the norm and has sparked speculation within the party’s youth wing.

Mr Mintah has declared his intention to contest for the National Youth Organiser position. 

This perceived sidelining has raised questions over whether Mr Opare Addo is withdrawing support for his long-time ally in favour of Osman Ayariga, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the National Youth Authority and a Deputy National Youth Organiser, who is also seeking the position.

The development has fueled debate among party youth, with some questioning whether the incumbent will back a preferred successor, remain neutral, or allow new alliances to shape the outcome of the race.

As the internal contest gathers momentum, political observers say the coming weeks will be critical in determining the dynamics of the race for leadership of the NDC’s youth wing.