The Upper West Akyem Constituency of the New Patriotic Party (NPP)in Eastern Region is in disarray as party executives resist alleged efforts to impose the incumbent MP, Frederick Obeng Adom, as an unopposed candidate in the upcoming parliamentary primaries.
Accusations are directed at Regional Chairman Jeff Konadu and Constituency Chairman Nana Adai Obuobi for orchestrating the plot, claimed enraged polling station executives and coordinators within the constituency.
In a press conference led by Nana Oppong Kyekyeku I, the executives expressed discontent, alleging that the chairmen invoked a supposed rule from National Leadership preventing any contest against a sitting MP. The executives vehemently opposed this coercion, emphasizing the need for democratic principles and allowing fair competition.
Stressing the concerns about Hon. Frederick Obeng Adom’s alleged loss of relevance and non-performance, the executives argued against forcing him as a candidate, citing potential harm to the party.
Asare Botwey Benjamin, a concerned party member, revealed that the DCE relayed a message instructing them not to allow any contestant against Hon. Frederick Obeng Adom, claiming it came from the Regional Chairman and was sanctioned by the National Leadership. The polling station executives contested this claim, asserting the National Leadership had not issued any such directive.
Ready to boycott the upcoming elections if the alleged coercive plot persists, the executives declared their stance against unjust disqualification, emphasizing their support for candidates emerging through fair competition.
The Upper West Akyem constituency, an NDC stronghold, witnessed the NPP winning the parliamentary seat for the first time in 2020.
The incumbent Member of Parliament Frederick Obeng Adom defeated then NDC MP Derek Phone Assist Bekoe with 21,863 votes(51.93%) as against 20,196 votes(48.02%) .
However,in the Presidential election, John Mahama of the NDC garnered
21,694(52.49%) as against
19,060(46.11) secured President Akufo Addo of NPP.
Source: Mybrytfmonline.com/Obed Ansah
