Bolgatanga, March 30, GNA - The Upper East Regional Executive Committee of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has refuted an allegation levelled against the Regional Minister, Mr. Mark Woyongo, that he was awarding contracts to opposition party members, relatives and friends instead of NDC members.

A statement signed by the Regional Chairman, Alhaji Mumuni Bonaba and Secretary, Mr. Donatus Akamugri who read it at a press conference, said a document being circulated by some party members alleging that Mr Woyongo had awarded contracts to his relatives and friends and many others who are not members of the party was false and calculated to damage the reputation of the Minister and the party. "We believe that the procurement law stipulates the procedure for the award of contracts and the eligibility does not include party affiliation. In any case if it comes to our notice that contracts are being awarded to party faithful only but not all qualified Ghanaian contractors and others, we would take serious reservation to that and the Regional Executive Committee will not condone such practice." It said President John Atta Mills said he was a father for all and "we strongly believe that contracts should be awarded to people who are qualified and have the capacity to execute projects irrespective of their party affiliation".

The Executive members stated that whereas the party respects and accepts divergent views of members, it would not tolerate any acts of indiscipline without respect to the laid down procedures of addressing grievances in the party. The Executive members said they had so far enjoyed tremendous support and cooperation of the Regional Minister and his deputy in the discharge of their duties and advised members of the Party who are aggrieved to use the appropriate channel.