The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has formally expelled Umar Sanda from its membership following his decision to contest as an independent candidate in the Ayawaso East by-election. In a formal letter dated February 17, 2026, the party’s General Secretary, Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, stated that Sanda’s independent bid constitutes a direct violation of the NDC’s constitution. This disciplinary action follows a period of intense internal debate regarding the selection of the party’s officially endorsed candidate for the seat, which became vacant earlier this year.
The dismissal letter clarifies that by choosing to break ranks with the party, Umar Sanda has “automatically forfeited” his membership with immediate effect. The NDC leadership emphasized that the party remains committed to a collective decision-making process and cannot tolerate individuals who undermine the officially endorsed candidate. Legal experts note that such expulsions are standard practice within the major political parties in Ghana to maintain unity and prevent the dilution of the party’s vote during critical 2026 electoral cycles.
The Ayawaso East by-election, scheduled for March 3, 2026, has already become a focal point for political commentators. Umar Sanda’s decision to run as an independent candidate was reportedly motivated by grievances surrounding the conduct of the initial internal primaries. While the NDC has moved swiftly to sanitize its ranks, the presence of a former member on the ballot could present a challenge to the party’s goal of retaining the seat with a significant majority in the Greater Accra Region.
