In a powerful display of energy, strategic acumen, and grassroots mobilization, Osman Ayariga, Deputy National Youth Organizer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and Chief Executive Officer of the National Youth Authority (NYA), has emerged as a leading force in the party’s bid to capture the Ablekuma North parliamentary seat in Friday’s high-stakes re-run.
Nicknamed the “Green Army Commander” by supporters, Ayariga has rallied hundreds of young activists under the NDC’s Green Army initiative, spearheading an intensive, ground-level campaign in support of the party’s candidate, Ewurabena Aubynn. His relentless presence and organizing efforts have made him a central figure in what has become one of the most closely watched races in the country.
“Ablekuma North will turn green today!” Ayariga declared boldly on the eve of the election. “The youth are awake, they are determined, and they are ready to deliver this seat to the NDC.”
The rerun, taking place across 19 polling stations today, July 11, was triggered by a protracted electoral dispute following the December 2024 general elections, which left the constituency without a Member of Parliament for more than six months.
Although the New Patriotic Party (NPP) officially opted to boycott the rerun, its candidate Nana Akua Owusu Afriyie broke ranks and is running independently, injecting fresh tension into an already charged atmosphere. In response, Ayariga has urged calm and vigilance, calling on all parties to prioritize peace.
“The people of Ablekuma North deserve peace and fairness. Any attempts by individuals or groups to derail this process will be fiercely resisted by the people, especially the youth who have taken full ownership of this election,” Ayariga warned in an interview earlier today.
Since the campaign began, Ayariga has led from the front — conducting door-to-door visits, energizing street rallies, and now overseeing youth-led monitoring teams stationed across all polling centres to safeguard the integrity of the vote.
Insiders within the NDC credit Ayariga’s leadership with injecting new momentum and discipline into the party’s youth machinery. Under his direction, the Green Army has transformed into a vibrant and organized political movement capable of delivering electoral results.
Senior NDC figures, including campaign director Prof. Joshua Alabi, have praised the youth mobilization in Ablekuma North, calling the rerun a “litmus test” of the party’s readiness for the 2028 general elections.
The Electoral Commission has pledged a free, fair, and credible process, while security agencies have increased their presence at all polling locations. Ayariga and his team are reportedly working in close coordination with law enforcement to ensure calm prevails.
Political analysts believe the outcome of today’s vote could have far-reaching implications for the NDC, both symbolically and strategically. A victory in Ablekuma North would not only flip a historically NPP-held seat but also affirm the rising influence of youth leadership in Ghana’s democratic process.
For Ayariga, this election is about more than just securing a seat — it’s about redefining the role of young people in Ghanaian politics.
“Victory for Ewurabena Aubynn is victory for the youth, and victory for Ablekuma North,” he said. “We’re not just voting, we’re making history.”
