The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has chosen a new parliamentary candidate for the Assin Central Constituency, in a surprising outcome that could have implications for Ghana’s political future.
Godfred Anti Anewu, a businessman, beat three other contenders in the NPP’s primary on Saturday, securing 193 of the 506 votes cast. His closest rivals, Joseph Adjei-Banin, a presidential staffer, and Eric Kwadwo Baidoo, a relative of former NPP general secretary John Boadu, received 119 and 115 votes respectively. The fourth candidate, Obed Kumi Awuah, a road contractor, got 79 votes.
Anewu will replace the outspoken and controversial Kennedy Agyapong, who has decided not to run for re-election after serving as the MP for Assin Central since 2000. Agyapong, who is also a media mogul and a vocal critic of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), has announced his intention to run for president in 2024.
Anewu’s victory was unexpected, as many had tipped either Adjei-Banin or Baidoo to succeed Agyapong, given their connections and influence within the NPP. Anewu, however, claimed that he had a divine calling to become the next MP for Assin Central. He told the media that he had a dream in which God told him to take over from Agyapong.
What does this mean for Ghana?
Anewu’s win could signal a shift in the political dynamics of the Assin Central Constituency, which has been a stronghold of the NPP for two decades. Agyapong’s popularity and charisma have helped the NPP maintain a large margin of victory over the NDC in the past elections. However, Anewu may face a tougher challenge from the NDC’s candidate, James Gyakye Quayson, who is a young and energetic entrepreneur.
Anewu may also have to deal with the expectations and demands of the Assin Central voters, who have benefited from Agyapong’s generosity and development projects. Anewu has pledged to continue Agyapong’s legacy and work with him to improve the lives of the people. He has also promised to collaborate with the other NPP aspirants to unite the party and ensure a successful election in 2024.
Anewu’s win could also have implications for the national politics of Ghana, as the NPP prepares to choose its flagbearer for the 2024 presidential race. Agyapong, who is one of the potential contenders, may have lost some of his influence and support base in the Assin Central Constituency, which could affect his chances of securing the NPP’s nomination. Anewu, on the other hand, may emerge as a new ally and power broker for Agyapong or any other aspirant who can win his endorsement.
The NPP’s primary in Assin Central was one of the first steps in the party’s quest to retain power in 2024, after winning the 2020 elections by a narrow margin. The NPP faces a formidable challenge from the NDC, which has not conceded defeat and has accused the NPP of rigging the polls. The NDC is also expected to field its former president, John Mahama, as its candidate for the third time.
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Source: Modern Ghana
