Zongo president, Said Sinare removed from ambassadorial list

Zongo president, Said Sinare removed from ambassadorial list

A major controversy is currently rocking Ghana’s Council of State and the ranks of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) following the sudden removal of Alhaji Said Sinare’s name from the ambassadorial nomination list — and his replacement with none other than his cousin, popular actress Kalsoume Sinare.

Sources told our correspondent that Alhaji Sinare was one of 22 nominees presented for approval by the Council on Thursday, April 17. But in a twist that has left many party insiders shocked, his name was allegedly struck out at the last minute in favour of his cousin.

“This is a slap in the face of loyalty,” a senior Council source fumed. “Alhaji Sinare has given his all to the party. He didn’t just work from the top — he was in the trenches, especially in the Zongo communities. To drop him for someone without that pedigree is deeply unfair.”

Alhaji Sinare is no stranger to diplomatic service, having previously served as Ghana’s Ambassador to Egypt and Saudi Arabia. But more than his official titles, many NDC loyalists credit him with being one of the party’s most dedicated grassroots mobilisers — often using his own resources to reach and engage thousands across the country.

“He visited over 4,000 Zongo communities on his own dime,” a close ally revealed. “When others stayed in Accra or looked for political favours, he was on the ground. This move is not just insulting, it is dangerous. It could tear his family and the party apart.”

Party insiders say members of the Council had lobbied strongly for Sinare’s inclusion, especially given his significant contributions during the 2016, 2020, and 2024 elections. However, last-minute internal lobbying and political favouritism reportedly changed the tide.

Other notable names on the final list include Baba Jamal, Victor Smith, Kojo Bonsu, Hon. Larbi, and Moses Asaga. But the exclusion of Alhaji Sinare is the one raising the most dust.

Many within the NDC and especially in Zongo communities are not taking it lightly. Some fear the move smacks of nepotism and undermines the party’s core values of merit and sacrifice.

Alhaji Fuseini, a senior party member, described the situation as “a major blunder,” warning that sidelining someone of Sinare’s stature could alienate a vital voting bloc.

“This kind of decision can cost us. It’s not about the title; it’s about respect for those who have laboured for the party,” he said.

As discontent continues to grow, calls are mounting for President John Mahama and the NDC leadership to revisit the decision and restore fairness in key appointments.

“This is not the time to reward showbiz over service,” one party chieftain warned. “If the leadership doesn’t act fast, they may have a bigger crisis on their hands.”

Efforts to reach Alhaji Said Sinare for comments were unsuccessful as of press time. But the tension his removal has triggered continues to swell, with many saying the party risks deeper internal cracks if urgent steps are not taken.