Jinapor, Ex-DCE clash

Interesting names are emerging as possible contenders in leading the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) at the Yapei-Kusawgu Constituency as its parliamentary candidate for 2016 elections.

It follows a decision by the incumbent Member of Parliament (MP), Alhaji Seidu Amadu, not to seek re-election after serving the area since 1993.

Alhaji Amadu who until his entry into parliament in 1993 was the district secretary for the area from 1983 is considered as one of the longest serving MPs of the Fourth Republic from the Northern Region.

DAILY GUIDE has confirmed that three persons, including Deputy Minister of Power and former Presidential Spokesperson, John Abdulai Jinapor, former Central Gonja District Chief Executive and current Deputy NDC Regional Secretary, Sualisu Bi-Awuribe and United Kingdom-based Gamel Kewuuribe Hoeboafia will lock horns for the slot.

Aside Hoeboafia who is making a second attempt after losing out to the incumbent in 2011, the other two are entering the race for the first time.

Mr Jinapor and Mr Bi-Awuribe have separately confirmed their interest in contesting in the upcoming primary to DAILY GUIDE.

It is gathered that both started nurturing the ambition after 2012 when it was revealed that the incumbent may not be seeking a re-election.

His decision to step down followed the dwindling fortunes of the party in the area which nearly cost it the seat in 2012 as the NPP almost snatched it.

Sources revealed that the decision is to avert a possible loss of the seat to the NPP which gave the NDC a good run for its money in 2012 that the incumbent is giving way to a new face.

As a result, Mr Jinapor and the former DCE started canvassing for support at the grassroots to the extent there were accusations and counter accusations over one out-stepping the bounds of the other.

The former presidential spokesperson who is a regular visitor to Buipe recently donated 6,000 pieces of 3kg LPG cylinders with stoves and accessories to low income earners in Buipe and surrounding communities.

Many are of the view that his open generosity was part of a grand strategy to win the support of members of the party in the constituency.

Several communities in the Yapei-Kusawgu Constituency in last couple of months have been hooked to the national grid through his effort.

But, Mr Bi-Awuribe is optimistic he would shock the deputy minister as a grassroots person who is always in touch with the people.