The National Democratic Congress (NDC) on Saturday elected leadership for the women and youth wings of the party amidst allegations of massive bribery.

Aspirants were openly seen sharing cash, as well as goodies to the delegates ahead of voting at the Pentecost Convention Centre, Millennium City, Gomoa Fetteh in the Central Region, venue of the event.

Ahead of the congress, NDC founder, former President Jerry John Rawlings, urged candidates and delegates to endeavour to sustain the underlining values and principles of the party.

“The party was formed through the selfless sacrifices and integrity of gallant young men and women of this country. Women and the youth were the backbone of this history and still remain pivotal in shaping the future and destiny of our country.

“Let me reiterate the destructive effect of monetization in our body politic, and urge all delegates to resist any attempt to use money to override our true sense of judgement in selecting the right leadership we need for the party,” the former president said in a statement.

He said integrity of the process was very important, asking delegates to reject those who lack genuine commitment and character to lead the party.

“Delegates must elect those who understand and appreciate the core principles of good leadership – integrity, patriotism, truth, loyalty, team spirit, accountability and respect for leadership,” he stated.

Dr Hannah Bissiw, a former Deputy Minister of Food and Agriculture, and George Opare Addo, former MCE of Akuapem North, have been elected the National Women’s Organiser and National Youth Organiser respectively of the NDC.

Dr Bissiw polled 446 votes to beat the incumbent, Hajia Zaynab Joyce Mahama, who had 252 votes, as well as Hajia Tawa Zakari, 16 votes, and Margaret Chiravira 11 votes.

Her deputies were Maame Efua Sakyi Addo with 271 votes and Abigail Elorm, who garnered 249 votes.

For the Youth Organiser position, Mr Opare Addo, popularly called ‘Pablo,’ had 523 votes to defeat Yaw Brogya Genfi, who had 396 votes and Mr Wonder Madilo, 74 votes.

The two deputy positions of the National Youth Organiser were won by Edem Agbana, who had 396 votes, and Ruth Dela Sedoh, 341 votes.

The elected National Youth and Women’s Organisers would be inducted into office at the party’s National Delegates’ Congress slated for Saturday, November 17, at the Trade Fair Centre in Accra.