Shockwaves in NDC: Mahama Appoints Former Bawumia Aide, Rosemond Obeng, as Senior Presidential Staffer – Grassroots in Uproar

In a move that has sent ripples across Ghana’s political space, President John Dramani Mahama has appointed Rosemond Obeng, popularly known as “People’s Mother,” and a former Senior Aide to ex-Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, as a Senior Presidential Staffer at the Office of the President.

The appointment, confirmed by close presidential sources and later highlighted by multiple news outlets including Joy News, Starr FM, and Pulse Ghana, has divided opinion sharply within the National Democratic Congress (NDC), especially among the grassroots and youth loyalists.

 Aide to the Opposition Becomes Presidential Insider?

Rosemond Obeng, known for her strategic role under the NPP government, especially in youth mobilization and policy communication, was once deeply entrenched in the Vice President’s communication team and served as an advocate for some key youth-targeted NPP policies.

Her sudden alignment with Mahama’s team and her subsequent elevation to such a high-ranking position in the Jubilee House has triggered accusations of “political betrayal,” “opportunism,” and “strategic infiltration” across Ghana’s media and political platforms.

One party communicator wrote on X (formerly Twitter):

“So many loyal comrades with NDC blood have been struggling in the trenches, yet someone who openly supported Bawumia is now Senior Staffer? This is a slap in our face.”

Mixed Reactions: Disappointment, Confusion, and Strategic Justification

The move has drawn a storm of comments from Ghanaians, especially on Facebook, X, and TikTok.

•Disgruntled grassroots members argue the appointment demoralizes loyal supporters who have stood with the party through thick and thin.

•Others suspect this is an elite political realignment orchestrated to soften tensions between the NDC and moderate defectors from the NPP.

•A few, however, view the appointment as a strategic masterstroke in the lead-up to the 2024 general elections.

Popular youth activist Kwame Blaq posted:

“Why are we shocked? Politics is interest. Maybe Rosemond saw the light. But this appointment is still hard to swallow.”

A former NDC regional youth organizer also shared:

“We are not against newcomers. But this lady was not just an NPP supporter; she was one of Bawumia’s top aides. You don’t bring her in and skip over hundreds

of hardworking comrades!”

Mahama’s Calculated Gamble?

Sources close to the presidency suggest that Mahama is positioning his administration to be more inclusive, bringing in professionals from both ends of the political divide to foster bipartisanship and national healing.

According to one presidential insider:

“Rosemond Obeng’s appointment is not about her political past, but her capacity. She brings experience from a different side of governance, which could help the presidency connect to younger demographics and even attract floating voters.”

Still, many believe Mahama should have consulted the party base more thoroughly before confirming such a politically sensitive decision.

 What’s Next for the NDC?

The controversy has once again laid bare the fragile internal unity of the National Democratic Congress. While Mahama continues to position himself as the candidate of national unity and reconciliation, this latest move could fuel further discontent within the party’s rank and file, especially as the 2024 elections approach.

Political analyst Dr. Etse Agbeko notes:

“This move might be good on paper, but the optics are damaging. In a highly polarized system like Ghana’s, optics matter more than intentions.”

Conclusion: Political Realignment or Betrayal?

Rosemond Obeng’s switch from the Bawumia camp to Mahama’s inner circle raises more questions than answers. Is this a rare display of political maturity and inclusiveness, or a dangerous signal that loyalty no longer matters in Ghanaian politics?

As Ghanaians gear up for yet another high-stakes election, this controversial appointment might either redefine Mahama’s brand as a unifier—or rekindle intra-party resentment that could hurt the NDC’s momentum.

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