For the National Democratic Congress (NDC), tomorrow May 7th marks the beginning of a new chapter in the party’s history, as it launches the first phase of a facelift programme with the return of old-time members who had previously quit over disagreements with the founder.

The programme, which takes place at the National Theatre, would feature the outdooring of the party’s running-mate, John Dramani Mahama and the official launch of the party’s campaign for the forthcoming presidential election in December.

Former President Jerry John Rawlings is expected to address the party at the function.

According to Seth Ofori-Ohene, NDC deputy Director of Communications, party faithful would also be addressed by Prof John Evans Atta Mills, the party’s presidential candidate; Asiedu Nketiah, General Secretary; and Dr. Kwabena Adjei, National Chairman.

A statement issued in Accra indicated that the launch would serve as an opportunity to introduce the Vice Presidential candidate of the party, Hon John Dramani Mahama and to “roll out the party’s agenda and vision of a better Ghana to our beloved country men and women.”

Already returning to their old party are P.V. Obeng, who recently chaired a high-profile party function at the Erata Hotel at East Legon in Accra; Capt Kojo Tsikata (rtd), former Security Chief; Goosie Tandoh, the man who formed the National Reform Party (NRP); Dr. Kwesi Botchwey, one-time Finance and Economic Planning Minister, who was rumoured to lead the Democratic Freedom Party (DFP) as presidential candidate; and Kofi Totobi-Quakyi, former National Security Minister.

Strategies for the facelift were discussed at the Erata Hotel in Accra by the party under the chairmanship of P.V. Obeng.

Reliable information reaching DAILY GUIDE suggests that the “I Care For You” mantra would be replaced with “The New Deal”.

An earlier release signed by the National Campaign Manager of the party, Alex Segbefia, spoke about the party initiating a new relationship with the media.

“We will also use the occasion to initiate our new relationship with the media. On that day journalists who will be accredited to cover the launch at the National Theatre will be given special packages,” he said.

Giving an insight into what the public should expect tomorrow, the Campaign Manager said there would be a float on the streets of Accra and a convergence on the National Theatre for the launch.

The highpoint of the launch, he noted, would be the outdooring of the party’s new logo, image, colours and messages.

He disclosed that the NDC is set for the task ahead as it is imbibed with fresh energy, total professionalism and a scientific approach to the electoral duel ahead.

“We have a comprehensive programme which we intend to adhere to diligently without allowing anyone to dictate an agenda for us,” he said.

Mr. Segbefia pointed out that their party would project a presidential team and not a personality, adding that their campaign would be issue-based.

With the return of the party’s ‘prodigal sons’, the Campaign Manager was able to confidently assert that “the NDC has a united front and was heading towards victory in the December elections”.

The coming days would be interesting for the NDC as its independence from the Founder in terms of direction would be put to the test.

Founder Rawlings and his spouse were not amused by the choice of Hon Mahama as the running mate, preferring instead, Mrs. Betty Mould Iddrisu, Director of Legal Services at the Commonwealth Secretariat in London.
source: Daily Guide