In an opinion piece published on his Facebook page, Mr. Ibn Yameen Lukman, a member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and Chief Executive Officer of The Executive Farmer has expressed concern over a worrying trend of stifling the aspirations of youth in Ghana’s political space particularly within the New Patriotic Party, which he describes as an attack on the country’s future.
He cited the recent incidents in Walewale where Dr. Tiah Kabiru Mahama’s attempt to serve his people has been met with allegations of being “ungrateful” and “disrespectful” by NPP influential figures who have also subjected him to political victimization and abuse.
He highlighted that the practice of suppressing the vision of the youth to lead by powerful political figures undermines the very foundation of youth participation in democratic process which has the potential to erode the youth’s trust in democracy and degrades the potential of the future generations.
“…it’s an attack on the very foundation of youth participation in our democracy. When those in power use their platforms to stifle the voices of young people, they are not just silencing individuals; they are undermining the potential of an entire generation,” he said.
According to Mr. Lukman, the situation transcends internal party matters and constitutes assault on the growth and vision of young people across the nation which requires unified efforts from the youth across political parties to tackle.
He cautioned the youth supporting Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s presidential campaign to rethink their allegiance as the recent marginalization of promising young individuals within the party raises questions about the party’s commitment to youth empowerment and development.
“Young people who are championing Dr. Bawumia’s ticket should take a moment of introspection. Ask yourselves: If today’s leadership is willing to cast aside promising young talents like Manaf and Dr. Kabiru Mahama, what does that mean for your own future? Are you truly being given a seat at the table, or are you being used as mere pawns in a political chess game?” he quizzed.
Mr. Lukman urged Ghanaians to demand better from their leaders and elect leaders who recognizes the youth’s potential and empower them to reach their full potential.
His remarks join many others who are worried about the barriers to youth participation in politics especially those without godfathers following the Walewale NPP primaries incident.
Writter: Mohammed Hafiz Diawudeen|| North Situation Room
