Akim Oda NPP youth reject calls for Alexander Akwasi Acquah to go unopposed in primaries

Some youth of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), predominately polling station and electoral area officers in the Akim Oda Constituency have strongly opposed reported moves by some regional and constituency executives to ensure that the incumbent Member of Parliament, Alexander Akwasi Acquah, goes unopposed in the party’s upcoming parliamentary primaries. The youth, who expressed their displeasure over what they described as attempts to impose a candidate on the constituency, insisted that the parliamentary primaries must be conducted through a fair and democratic process that allows all eligible aspirants to contest. Addressing the concerns, the group called on party executives and individuals allegedly advocating for an unopposed candidature to reconsider their position, stressing that no individual should be placed above the collective interests and democratic principles of the party. Mahama hints at multi-day celebrations for Ghana’s 70th Independence anniversary According to the youth, reports that the incumbent MP may not want to be challenged in the upcoming primaries have generated considerable concern among party members, particularly those who believe that delegates should be given the freedom to make their own choices. They argued that the situation is particularly troubling because Acquah reportedly went unopposed in the previous parliamentary primaries, leaving some party members and delegates dissatisfied with the process. The group further alleged that the circumstances surrounding the previous primaries contributed to their decision not to participate in the last general election, despite the sacrifices and efforts they had made towards the party’s success. They maintained that delegates and grassroots supporters who had worked tirelessly for the NPP deserved an opportunity to exercise their voting rights and determine who represents the constituency in Parliament. The youth stressed that the incumbent MP should be willing to subject his performance, leadership and achievements to the judgment of delegates rather than seek an uncontested endorsement. “If he truly believes in his work, his track record will speak for itself and prove his worth to the people. He should allow himself to be contested and give delegates the opportunity to decide,” the group stated. They also rejected arguments that financial contributions or individual investments in the party should give any member an advantage over others in determining the constituency’s parliamentary candidate. According to them, while some individuals may have contributed substantial financial resources to the party, grassroots supporters and ordinary members have equally made sacrifices within their means to sustain the party. The group emphasised that the NPP belongs to all its members and that no individual should assume exclusive ownership of the party or its political fortunes in the constituency. “A true leader is not afraid of fair competition or the voice of the people. We demand a fair democratic process,” they maintained. The youth consequently appealed to the party’s regional and constituency leadership to respect the democratic rights of delegates and ensure that the upcoming parliamentary primaries provide a level playing field for all interested aspirants. They insisted that allowing a competitive process would not only strengthen internal democracy but also provide an opportunity for the incumbent MP to demonstrate his popularity and earn a renewed mandate from the delegates. The group maintained that their position was not necessarily a rejection of Alexander Akwasi Acquah’s candidature but a demand for fairness, transparency and the right of party members to choose their preferred parliamentary candidate. They called on all stakeholders to prioritise party unity, internal democracy and the collective aspirations of the Akim Oda Constituency ahead of the upcoming parliamentary primaries. Ghana’s Military Displays Combat Strength in Major Firepower Exercise Source: Richard Aboagye, Contributor
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