Minister for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has dismissed claims of tension between the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the government, insisting there is no rift between the party and President John Dramani Mahama’s administration.

Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen show, Mr. Kwakye Ofosu responded to allegations that the President was unaware of a decision by the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) requiring government appointees to resign before contesting for internal party positions.

He explained that the NDC National Chairman and General Secretary attend Cabinet meetings, ensuring that major government decisions are taken with party leadership fully involved.

He also noted that there are regular interactions between the President and the party leadership.

“The Chairman and General Secretary of the NDC participate in cabinet meetings, which means they are involved in any major government decisions. There are also regular interactions between the party leadership and the President, and there is currently no friction between the government and the party,” he stated.

According to Mr. Kwakye Ofosu, the NDC’s position is aimed at ensuring a level playing field and preventing the abuse of public office or the neglect of government duties in pursuit of party positions.

“If the party requests that appointees resign before contesting in internal elections, this is not a new policy. President Kufuor implemented a similar measure, resulting in about 11 ministers resigning to participate in the NPP primaries. The NDC party believes in ensuring a level playing field so that no individual can misuse their position while contesting for a party role or halt government work to focus on an election campaign.

“I think this is a fair proposition. There is no rift between the party and the government, and the president does not need to attend the National Executive Committee (NEC) meetings to stay informed about party decisions,” he said.