The New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Suhum Constituency has expressed deep regret over the recent decision by their Member of Parliament (MP), Hon. Kwadjo Asante, to contest the upcoming 2024 Parliamentary Elections as an independent candidate.
The MP who lost his second term bid in the parliamentary primaries of the party to Frank Asiedu Bekoe, alias Protozoa, Political Advisor to the Chief of Staff alleged machinations in the electoral process by some top party and government officials of the party leading to his defeat.
On Sunday September 1, while addressing huge gathering of supporters in Suhum, the MP formerly announced to contest the seat as an independent candidate bringing finality to long standing rumour.
He said the people of Suhum called upon him to contest to continue the developmental agenda he has started.
However,in a statement issued on September 1, 2024, the Suhum NPP voiced its disappointment, noting that the MP’s decision comes despite extensive efforts by party leadership at various levels to address concerns following the January 27th, 2024 Constituency Delegates’ Congress. During that congress, Mr. Frank Asiedu-Bekoe was chosen as the NPP’s parliamentary candidate for the 2024 elections.
“We are saddened by the surprising decision of the MP, despite all the efforts made by the leadership of the party, both national, regional, and at the constituency levels, to address the fallouts from the Congress,” the statement read.
The Suhum NPP acknowledged that dissatisfaction is inevitable in a large party like the NPP but urged members to stay focused on the bigger picture. “A political party such as NPP, with a membership strength running over a million, not all of us would be satisfied with decisions of the party from time to time,” the statement continued. “However, we can only admonish us all to get focused.”
The party also called for calm and unity among its members, warning against actions or statements that could exacerbate tensions. “The rank and file of the party is further advised to desist from any acts and pronouncements which may infuriate and/or inflame passion during these trying times in our party,” the statement urged. “Insults do not earn votes!”
Additionally, the Suhum NPP reiterated its stance on the consequences of running as an independent candidate, referencing the party’s constitution. “The membership of MP and all those who profess like him remain forfeited from the party, forthwith,” the statement clarified, citing Article 3(9)(1) of the NPP Constitution.
The party emphasized that it will not tolerate any member campaigning for or supporting independent candidates. “The party will not shield anyone who goes contrary to its rules by campaigning and/or declaring support to any independent candidate or other political party when the party has one it is supporting,” the statement concluded.
Source: Mybrytfmonline.com/Obed Ansah
