The Functional Executive Committee (FEC) of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has decided not to disqualify Zakaria Abdulai from contesting the Juaben Constituency Chairmanship despite allegations of sexual misconduct involving female students of Obuasi Senior High Technical School.
In a statement signed by the party’s General Secretary, Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, the NDC said it had taken note of media reports, including an investigative report by journalist Manasseh Azure Awuni, concerning allegations against Abdulai, who is the headmaster of the school and the party’s Constituency Secretary in Juaben in the Ashanti Region.
The party described the allegations as extremely serious and reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on sexual abuse and harassment, particularly involving students under the care of teachers and school authorities.
According to the statement, the FEC initially considered requiring Abdulai to resign voluntarily or disqualifying him from the constituency chairmanship contest.
However, at a meeting on Monday, October 19, 2026, the committee invited him to present his side of the matter in accordance with the principles of fairness and natural justice.
The FEC said it also considered the report of a Ghana Education Service (GES) committee, the investigation by Manasseh Azure Awuni, and a directive from the Minister for Education, Haruna Iddrisu, referring the matter to the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service for a comprehensive criminal investigation.
The committee further took into account Abdulai’s interdiction by the GES pending the outcome of investigations.
After considering these developments and the timelines of the ongoing electoral process, the FEC resolved not to disqualify him at this stage, citing the need to respect the constitutional rights of all parties, including the presumption of innocence.
The NDC stressed that the decision should not be interpreted as a determination of the merits of the allegations, which remain the responsibility of the police and the courts.
The party expressed support for a thorough, independent and speedy investigation by the CID and urged anyone with relevant information to cooperate with investigators.
It also called on the public to respect the privacy, safety and dignity of the alleged victims, warning against any attempt to intimidate or pressure complainants or witnesses.
The statement added that the party reserves the right to review its decision depending on the outcome of the investigations.
The NDC reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the safety, dignity and future of children in schools.
