The indefinite postponement of Akuapem South parliamentary primary of the New Patriotic Party, NPP, has sparked apprehension, and anxiety among party members, creating an atmosphere of political uncertainty.
A group calling itself Concerned Members and Polling Station Executives of the NPP are demanding that the primary be held not later than February 7,2024 to avoid consequences on the party.
The Parliamentary primary of the NPP in Akuapem South constituency in Eastern Region initially scheduled for January 27, 2024 was postponed by the party due to the withdrawal of Member of Parliament Osei Bonsu Amoah, leaving contenders Eric Apeadu Yeboah former Aide of the MP, Kwame Ofori Gyawu, and Samuel Annor Mensah to fiercely compete for the coveted seat.
Amoah’s withdrawal, citing personal and national interests, ignited speculation about political maneuvers which he succeeded to achieve by getting the MCE for the area Frank Aidoo who filed his nomination disqualified from the race to give competitive advantage to his former aide.
The MCE however filed his nomination with petition that should be included in the contest should OB Amoah steps down.
Addressing the media in Aburi on February 2, 2024, the Concerned Members and Polling Station Executives of NPP raised concerns over the delay in conducting the primary stating that it has created fear, panic, and uncertainty while escalating operational costs for aspirants.
Below is the full press statement
Press Release
Subject: Urgent Concerns Regarding the Delay of Akuapem South NPP Constituency Parliamentary Primaries
Date: 2nd February, 2024
We, the concerned members and Polling Station Executives of the Akuapem South NPP, are issuing this press release following the delay in conducting the constituency Parliamentary Primaries. This delay was relayed to us in a letter from the General Secretary of the party, dated 25th January, 2024, with reference Number NPP/HQ/ PR/2024/01/25/GS/ASC.
Key Points of Concern:
- Fear, Panic, Apprehension, and Anxiety: The delay has instilled significant fear, panic, apprehension, and anxiety within the Akuapem South Constituency, leading to an environment of uncertainty and concern among our members and constituents.
- Daily Increase in Aspirant’s Operational Costs: The ongoing delay continues to escalate the operational costs for the aspirant and the broader operations within our constituency, placing an increased financial toll on our NPP members and constituents.
- Urgent Need for Early Preparations: In light of the delay, it has become imperative to avoid any unnecessary delays in preparing for the 2024 General Election. Early preparations are crucial to fostering healing and reconciliation, paving the way for a united and prepared party.
- NDC’s Parliamentary Candidate Election: Notably, the NDC has already elected their parliamentary candidate, highlighting the urgency and importance for the NPP to expedite our electoral processes.
- Demand for Explanation: We request a clear and thorough explanation from the regional and national leadership regarding the reasons for the postponement of our internal elections.
- Aspirants’ Capabilities: We believe that any of the three aspirants named in the notice of the poll possesses the capability and potential to win the seat for the NPP in Akuapem South.
In conclusion, we emphasize the pivotal nature of resolving these urgent concerns for the cohesion and success of our party’s representation in the Akuapem South Constituency. Our members and constituents are eagerly awaiting a prompt and decisive response from the regional and national leadership. We also plead that the leadership of our party allow the election to take place by the 7th of February 2024.
Attached herewith is the list of Polling Station Executives with their contact numbers and signatures for your perusal.
Signed,
Seth Frimpong
Convener
Source:Mybrytfmonline.com/Obed Ansah
