Where is Spio-Garbrah? —C/R Loyal Supporters for NDC seek answers from Mahama

By African Editors| Feature Story | July 3, 2025

A letter that echoes across the Central Region

On Wednesday, July 2, 2025, a passionate letter addressed to President John Dramani Mahama surfaced from the heart of the Central Region. Authored by the Central Region Loyal Supporters for NDC, led by their Public Relations Officer, Messiah Amiresi Abor (MAKA IGP), the letter raises an urgent and heartfelt question: “Where is Spio?”

The question refers to Dr. Ekwow Spio-Garbrah, a veteran politician and respected member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), whose absence from key governmental appointments has stirred discomfort among grassroots supporters in the Central Region.

Gratitude meets concern

The letter begins on a tone of appreciation. The group commends President Mahama for recognizing the Central Region through key appointments — notably Vice President Naana Jane Opoku-Agyeman, Finance Minister Cassiel Ato Forson, Regional Minister Ekwaw Okyere Eduamoah Payin, Government Communications Minister Felix Ofosu Kwakye, and Ambassador Sati Ocran.

Yet, amidst the celebration of representation, one conspicuous absence looms large.

The missing name: Dr. Ekwow Spio-Garbrah

Referred to affectionately as “Uncle Spio” by supporters, Dr. Spio-Garbrah is described as a stalwart of the NDC, with deep-rooted contributions to the party’s communication strategy, campaign efforts, and national development projects.

The letter painstakingly outlines his efforts:

• Member of the Central Regional Fundraising Team for the 2024 campaign
• Prominent face in national media advocating for the NDC
• Active participant in rallies and constituency engagements
• Long-time communications strategist dating back to the 1990s
• Former minister who played a key role in reviving the Komenda Sugar Factory

His supporters see him not just as a political figure, but as a regional icon whose visibility reflects the Central Region’s voice in national affairs.

Why the silence, Mr. President?

Despite Dr. Spio-Garbrah’s résumé and loyalty, the letter laments his apparent exclusion from the top tier of appointments made by the current administration. The Central Region Loyal Supporters for NDC see this as a troubling oversight — one that risks discouraging the very foot soldiers who fought hard to return the NDC to power in 2024.

“It is not just about personal loyalty to Dr. Spio-Garbrah,” the letter reads. “It is also about the perception that our contributions are not valued as much as those of others.”

Loyalty without reward?

The letter taps into a broader concern echoed across political party bases in Ghana: the recognition (or lack thereof) of the people who work tirelessly behind the scenes.

From debates and door-to-door campaigns to rallies and fundraisers, grassroots supporters often operate on faith — faith that their loyalty will be acknowledged, their voices heard, and their icons elevated. For many in Gomoa East and across the Central Region, Spio-Garbrah’s omission feels like a betrayal of that faith.

Still on the bench

The metaphor used by the letter’s author is telling:

“With such a gem available to play in the NDC soccer team, we the spectators do not understand why he is not being fielded.”

It’s a call not just for recognition, but activation — a plea to put experience and expertise to work at a critical time for Ghana.

An appeal, not a rebellion

The letter is careful to maintain a tone of respect, reiterating the group’s faith in President Mahama’s leadership and vision for a reset Ghana. It acknowledges the complexity of appointments but insists that inclusivity and unity — especially in reflecting regional aspirations — are essential for a stronger administration.

“We believe in your vision… We hope that you will consider our plea,” it concludes.

What’s next for Uncle Spio?

While Dr. Spio-Garbrah currently chairs the NDC’s National Business Development Committee, the letter suggests that such a position — while significant — falls short of the expectations held by his supporters.

With the President’s administration still evolving, the Central Region Loyal Supporters for NDC hope their voice will not just be heard but acted upon. Whether this letter prompts reconsideration or further engagement remains to be seen.

But one thing is clear: for many in the Central Region, the question “Where is Spio?” is not just rhetorical. It is a call for recognition, for reward, and for rightful representation.

Editor’s Note: Attempts to reach representatives of Dr. Spio-Garbrah for comment are ongoing. The Flagstaff House has yet to issue an official response to the letter at the time of publication.

For updates on this and more political developments in Ghana, stay tuned.