NPP begins vetting aspiring MPs in Eastern Region

Koforidua, May 24, GNA - A three-member panel of National Executive Committee members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has on Monday, begun vetting 55 aspiring candidates from the Eastern Region, who filed their nominations to contest 20 Parliamentary seats on the Party's ticket in the December general election.

The panel is made up of Mrs Agnes Okudzeto, Second National Vice-Chairman, Mr Eddie Annang, Third National Vice-Chairman and Mr Lord Commey, National Organiser. Some members of the Regional and Constituency Executives are assisting them.

The two-day exercise at Koforidua is for candidates contesting the 18 seats with sitting NPP MPs and the two newly created ones of Abuakwa South and Ofoase/Ayirebi. Three women are contesting.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Mr Commey gave the assurance that the candidates would be given a level playing field during the vetting but cautioned that "you will be well-grilled to ensure that we get not only the eligible candidates but also those, who are well-suited for the Party's strategy towards winning the presidential and parliamentary elections".

He reiterated that the Party was targeting 170 of the 230 seats and asked them to abide by the Party's constitution, by accepting the decision of the panel in good faith.

Earlier, the Eastern Regional Chairman of the Party, Nana Adi Ankamah asked the candidates to stop attacking their opponents in the media as the Party was out for unity among members and supporters to ensure victory in the forthcoming elections.

The Party had earlier held primaries for Fanteakwa, Upper Manya, Afram Plains North and Afram Plains South, which do not have sitting NPP MPs. Those of Upper West Akim and Lower Manya, which also do not have Sitting NPP MPs, are yet to be held.