Kumasi, March 21, GNA - A group calling itself the Ghana First Movement, an affiliate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has stated that in contrast to speculations, the exit of Dr Obed Asamoah, former National Chairman from the NDC, would have no negative impact on its strength and performance in the 2008 general elections.

A statement issued in Kumasi on Monday by Nana Osei Bonsu, chairman of the movement, said, "His departure is rather a blessing as he would leave together with detractors of the NDC thereby strengthening our stance as a party". "His exit would further help unite us instead of dividing us and also make us more focused on our goals towards winning the 2008 general elections."

The movement advised members of the opposition parties not to be either deceived or swayed by the exit of Dr Asamoah and not to think that the image of the NDC had been dented. The statement expressed shock that instead of commending former President Jerry John Rawlings for bringing about multi-party governance into the country he is rather being condemned by people who claim he had done very little.