NDC rescinds decision, orders Obuasi SHTS head to step aside from race pending CID probe

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has directed Zakaria Abdulai, headmaster of Obuasi Senior High Technical School (SHTS), to step aside from the party’s Juaben constituency chairmanship race, following public criticism of its earlier decision to allow him to contest amid allegations of sexual abuse.

The party announced the latest decision on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, saying its Functional Executive Committee (FEC) had reconsidered its position to allow an unhindered criminal investigation into the allegations.

“After further consideration, FEC has directed that Mr Zakaria Abdulai step aside, in the overriding interest of transparency and accountability, to allow for an unhindered investigation by the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service.”

The reversal follows widespread criticism of the NDC’s earlier decision to clear Mr. Abdulai to contest despite the ongoing investigations.

The National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT) criticised the clearance, while human rights and sustainable development organisation RISE-Ghana called on the party to reconsider its position, warning that the decision could undermine public confidence in institutions and efforts to protect children.

The NDC had initially directed Mr. Abdulai to withdraw from the chairmanship race or face disqualification. It later reversed that position after inviting him to appear before the FEC and present his side of the matter.

In its latest statement, signed by General Secretary Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, the party stressed that directing Mr. Abdulai to step aside was not a determination of the allegations against him.

“This position is taken in good faith and is in no way a determination of the merits of the allegations against Mr. Abdulai, who remains entitled to the presumption of innocence.”

The party said it expected a thorough investigation and would be guided by the outcome.

“The Party trusts that the CID will conduct a thorough, fair and expeditious investigation, and will be guided by its outcome.”

The case gained public attention following an investigative report by journalist Manasseh Azure Awuni titled Inside the Dreaded Headmaster’s Bungalow, which detailed allegations of sexual misconduct involving female students at Obuasi SHTS.

The allegations include claims of rape, sexual harassment and sexual assault. They have not been established in court.

The Ghana Education Service has interdicted Mr Abdulai pending investigations, while the CID is handling the criminal aspect of the matter.

The NDC has directed the Ashanti Regional Election Committee and the Juaben Constituency Election Committee to take note of its latest decision and act accordingly.