James Kofi Annan, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) parliamentary candidate for Effutu in the 2024 elections, has strongly condemned a recent demonstration by some party members in the constituency.

The protest reportedly called on President John Dramani Mahama to appoint Mr Annan to a high-ranking position in his government.

In a statement signed and issued by Mr Annan, he distanced himself from the demonstration and expressed his disapproval. "I totally condemn the demonstration and completely disassociate myself from the actions," the statement read.

Mr Annan explained that he was not in Effutu at the time of the demonstration due to ill health, as he had been in Accra seeking medical attention and rest. He added that he had received prior intelligence about the planned protest and had taken steps to prevent it.

"On the morning of the demonstration, I was informed that some youth were planning to disrupt a meeting of the Constituency Executive in my office. I immediately contacted the Constituency Deputy Communications Officer, informed him of what I had heard, and advised that the meeting should not take place in my office," he said.

He further stated that when he learned the group intended to hold a press conference instead, he contacted the Municipal National Investigation Bureau (NIB) officer, sharing the youth leader's contact details and requesting that the situation be monitored.

“Unfortunately, all my efforts to prevent the youth from taking action were unsuccessful, possibly due to my physical absence,” he noted.

Mr Annan reiterated that the responsibility for appointing individuals to high-ranking positions lies solely with President Mahama.

“I wish to emphasise that the power to appoint individuals to high offices rests solely with the President,” he said.

He also urged the youth to refrain from associating his name with "irresponsible and reckless actions."

Despite the incident, Mr Annan reaffirmed his commitment to the NDC and his support for President Mahama's decisions.

“We worked hard to bring the party into office, and I believe that any decision taken by the President or the party is in the best interest of the party and aims to reset our country,” he stated.

He called on party members in the Effutu constituency to exercise restraint and focus on supporting the government in achieving its objectives. “Our responsibility as a party in the constituency is to unite and support the government in fulfilling the goals outlined in the manifesto,” he added.

The demonstration, led by some NDC supporters, escalated into violence when the protesters stormed the party's constituency office in Effutu, vandalising property and setting some items on fire. The youth claimed that Mr Annan had worked tirelessly for the party and deserved to be recognised with a government appointment.

Some protesters argued that despite Mr Annan’s loss in the parliamentary contest, they had made significant contributions to the NDC’s electoral victory and believed it was time for their efforts to be rewarded.