Tensions are running high in the Tema Metropolis as youth groups stormed the premises of the Tema Metropolitan Assembly, vehemently protesting against reports that actress-turned-politician Ebi Bright is being considered for the Mayor position.
The demonstrators, made up of concerned youth and community members from Tema East, chanted slogans, beat drums, and burned tyres to voice their disapproval, demanding that President John Dramani Mahama appoint an indigene of Tema instead.
According to them, the rightful choice should be Patience Ankamah Addo, who they claim was involved in the consultation and selection process and enjoys overwhelming support from both the grassroots and traditional leaders.
“We are here with a heavy heart to register our displeasure,” said Dora Sappor, one of the protest leaders. “We are hearing that Ebi Bright is to be made the Mayor of Tema, but that is not going to happen. She was not even part of the whole process, so why are they bringing her to be the mayor? This is something we will not understand.”
She emphasized that the protest was not politically motivated but driven by the community’s demand for fair representation and respect for due process.
“This is the only demand of the youth of Tema East and the traditional leaders,” she added.
The protest comes amid growing rumors that Ebi Bright, a known figure within the National Democratic Congress (NDC), is being considered for the position of Mayor despite not being included in early consultations.
No official confirmation has been made by the presidency or the NDC leadership regarding the Mayor nominee for Tema. However, the youth have served clear notice that any appointment perceived as imposed or externally driven will face strong resistance.
Traditional leaders from the area have also reportedly expressed concerns over the matter and are expected to hold discussions with party executives and government officials to avoid further unrest.
The protest remained largely peaceful, though the burning of tyres briefly disrupted traffic near the assembly offices. Local police monitored the situation to ensure it did not escalate.
