As Ghana’s 2024 elections approach, Professor Christopher Ameyaw Akumfi, a respected figure within the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and a former Minister of Education, has ramped up his efforts to rally the party faithful in the Bono East Region. Speaking at a gathering over the weekend in Karanka, Professor Ameyaw Akumfi delivered a powerful message urging all party members to remain loyal and united behind NPP candidates, warning against the practice of “skirt and blouse” voting, where voters choose candidates from multiple parties or select independent candidates over official NPP representatives.
In his address, Professor Akumfi emphasized that party unity is essential if the NPP hopes to secure a strong victory in both the presidential and parliamentary races. “Let us not nurture any idea of skirt and blouse voting, as it would not be in the interest of the party,” he declared. He urged party members to recognize the significant impact their votes have, noting that divided support could weaken the NPP’s overall success in this crucial election.
Professor Akumfi’s appeal to party loyalty focused on the need for members to fully support both the presidential candidate, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, and all NPP parliamentary candidates. “You have a duty to campaign and subsequently vote for the party’s flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, as well as the respective NPP parliamentary candidates in your constituencies,” he stated. By doing so, he argued, party supporters can demonstrate the solidarity that will be critical to securing the NPP’s success in the upcoming election.
The former Minister for Ports, Harbors, and Railways also expressed concern about voter turnout, encouraging local NPP executives to actively engage with party supporters and motivate them to show up at the polls on election day. “I am optimistic about the party’s victory, and I want us all to win together,” he said, conveying his confidence in the NPP’s prospects if members remain united and committed.
As part of his campaign efforts, Professor Ameyaw Akumfi further demonstrated his commitment to the party’s grassroots efforts by donating an undisclosed amount of money to support the work of polling station executives. This gesture underscored his dedication to building a strong local support network and helping party officials carry out their campaign activities effectively.
Professor Akumfi’s appeal comes at a critical time, as some party members have expressed interest in independent candidates who they feel better represent local concerns. This trend has raised concerns among NPP leadership, who fear that support for independents could split the vote and jeopardize the party’s chances in close constituencies. By calling for unity, Professor Akumfi hopes to dissuade party members from pursuing independent options and instead rally them around the NPP’s official candidates.
This message of unity is not unique to Professor Akumfi; it reflects a broader theme in NPP’s campaign strategy as the party seeks to consolidate its support base. Party leaders believe that a cohesive approach, with voters standing firmly behind their official candidates, will give the NPP the best chance to retain control in Parliament and secure the presidency. In emphasizing the importance of party loyalty, Professor Akumfi underscored the high stakes of this election, which will not only determine Ghana’s leadership for the coming term but also shape the country’s direction on critical issues such as economic growth, job creation, and social development.
Political analysts have pointed out that voter apathy is a potential threat, particularly in constituencies where party supporters may feel disillusioned with current leadership or disconnected from the party’s goals. By urging local executives to engage with voters and build enthusiasm, Professor Akumfi aims to mitigate this risk and boost turnout among NPP supporters. His call to action highlights the importance of voter mobilization, which could prove decisive in close races.
For many in the Bono East Region, Professor Akumfi’s message resonated strongly. His experience in public service and long-standing commitment to the NPP lend weight to his words, and his emphasis on the importance of solidarity struck a chord with party members who recognize the challenges of the upcoming election. As the NPP prepares for the final stretch of the campaign, Professor Akumfi’s appeal for unity is likely to become a recurring theme, as the party seeks to counter any fragmentation within its ranks.
The outcome of Ghana’s 2024 election will undoubtedly be shaped by voter sentiment and turnout, and the NPP’s leadership is acutely aware of the need to present a united front. Professor Ameyaw Akumfi’s recent efforts underscore the importance of maintaining party cohesion and loyalty, and his message serves as a reminder that the stakes in this election are higher than ever. For Professor Akumfi, the path to victory lies in unity, and he hopes that all NPP supporters will heed his call as they head to the polls this December.
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