Banda Constituency Elections 2024: A Close Political Contest
The 2024 parliamentary elections in Ghana’s Banda Constituency, located in the Bono Region, once again showcased the deeply entrenched political rivalry between the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP). As in previous elections, this year’s contest was defined by narrow margins and high stakes, with Ahmed Ibrahim of the NDC retaining his parliamentary seat in a fiercely fought election against Joe Danquah of the NPP.
Ahmed Ibrahim: The Incumbent Champion
Ahmed Ibrahim, who has represented Banda since 2012, emerged victorious in this year’s polls with 9,150 votes. Ibrahim’s political career began in 2009, and since then, he has solidified his reputation as a dependable advocate for the constituency's socio-economic needs. His extensive experience and continued service to Banda have played a pivotal role in his consistent electoral victories.
Ibrahim is also noted for his roles in Parliament, where he serves as the Deputy Minority Chief Whip. His influence extends beyond the constituency, as he is a key figure in the NDC's leadership. For this election, his campaign emphasized development-focused initiatives, particularly in education, infrastructure, and youth employment programs.
Joe Danquah: The Persistent Challenger
On the opposing side, Joe Danquah, a seasoned politician and former MP for the Tain Constituency, represented the NPP in Banda. He secured 8,010 votes, demonstrating strong support despite his loss. Danquah’s campaign focused on promises of infrastructure development and improved access to healthcare and education, seeking to position the NPP as a viable alternative for governance in Banda.
Danquah’s consistent challenge over the years has contributed to the competitive nature of the constituency. Though he lost in 2024, his influence remains significant, with his ability to garner votes posing a challenge to the NDC’s dominance in the area.
Banda: A Battleground Constituency
The Banda Constituency was carved out of Tain in 2012, and since its creation, it has been a hotspot for close elections. With just 44 polling stations and a relatively small voter population, the constituency has consistently experienced electoral contests decided by narrow margins.
In the 2020 elections, Ahmed Ibrahim defeated Joe Danquah by a mere 82 votes. This trend of close results has characterized Banda’s elections, making it one of the most politically significant constituencies in Ghana. The tension and high stakes often associated with elections in Banda were evident in 2024, as both major parties deployed significant resources to sway voters.
Election Day and Security Measures
The 2024 elections in Banda were conducted amidst heightened security to ensure a peaceful process. The constituency has a history of electoral disputes, including allegations of voter suppression and isolated incidents of violence in past elections. This year, the Electoral Commission of Ghana implemented strict measures to prevent irregularities and foster confidence among voters.
Observers from civil society organizations, political parties, and international groups monitored the elections, reporting largely peaceful proceedings. The presence of security personnel at polling stations reassured voters, contributing to a high turnout.
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