The New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) parliamentary primaries on January 27, 2024, for the six constituencies in the Akyemansa block of the Eastern Region, are poised to be unprecedentedly competitive and full of surprises. This significant political event marks the first time since the 4th Republic’s inception that 13 NPP stalwarts are contesting against six incumbent Members of Parliament (MPs) who are seeking re-election.
According to a report by the Daily Graphic, one of the most closely watched contests is in Akyem Swedru, where the Controller and Accountant General, Kwasi Kwaning-Bosompem, and Jerome Kwame Okyere Akordor, a Tema-based businessman, are challenging incumbent MP Kennedy Osei Nyarko. The presence of Kwaning-Bosompem, represented by Nana Ofosu Afrifah, attracted a substantial crowd, signaling his strong presence in the race. Meanwhile, Akordor’s nomination day also saw significant support, highlighted by a convoy of 20 motorbikes and multiple vehicles.
In New Abirem, Ghana’s High Commissioner to South Africa, Charles Asuoko Owiredu, Frank Mireku, and Daniel Kwadwo Afrifah are set to challenge incumbent John Osei Frimpong. Frimpong, buoyed by his developmental projects in the constituency, including major roadworks, is confident of retaining his seat.
The Akyem Ofoase contest is another focal point, where Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, the current MP and Minister of Information, faces competition from two candidates: Eric Owusu-Mensah and Maxwell Osei Gyamerah. Nkrumah, addressing a large crowd, emphasized his achievements and commitment to the constituency.
Meanwhile, in Akyem Achiase, four candidates, including Madam Benedicta Adom Biamah, are vying for the seat against incumbent Kofi Ahenkorah Marfo. The constituency’s dynamics are particularly intriguing, given Marfo’s denied nomination form, which he eventually obtained from the regional secretariat.
In another twist, Akyem Akroso saw a controversy with candidate Alex Owusu Agyei having to procure his nomination form from Koforidua due to local office unavailability. The incumbents, George Kwame Aboagye, and Owusu Agyei are the only candidates who filed nominations here.
Finally, the Oda constituency sees incumbent Alexander Akwasi Acquah facing a challenge from Dennis Obeng Agyei. The constituency’s political atmosphere is charged as both candidates filed their nominations amidst fanfare.
These primaries in the Akyemansa block are not just a test for the candidates but also a reflection of the evolving political dynamics within the NPP and the broader Ghanaian political landscape.
