Ashanti Region is no longer an NPP stronghold due to their underperformance – NDC’s Kwame Awuah Darko
Kwame Awuah Darko, a former Managing Director of the Tema Oil Refinery, has recently stated that the Ashanti Region is no longer a stronghold for the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) as Ghana approaches the 2024 general elections. Darko argued that the region, historically a key supporter of the NPP, has become disillusioned with the party, primarily due to what he described as the party’s neglect under President Akufo-Addo’s administration. According to Darko, this neglect has sparked frustration among the people of the Ashanti Region, who now feel that their loyalty to the NPP has been taken for granted.
In an interview in Kumasi, Darko reflected on the shift in political sentiment in the Ashanti Region, which has traditionally been a stronghold for the NPP. He claimed that the region, despite playing a crucial role in securing the NPP’s electoral victories in previous years, has not seen the level of development it expected from the government. Darko pointed out that many residents of the region now feel alienated, as the NPP government has failed to fulfill promises of infrastructure, job creation, and other forms of economic development.
Darko contrasted the NPP’s treatment of the Ashanti Region with the National Democratic Congress (NDC), which he believes has made more concerted efforts to address the region’s needs. He highlighted that under the leadership of former President John Dramani Mahama, the NDC initiated numerous development projects across various sectors, including education, healthcare, and infrastructure. Darko argued that the NDC’s commitment to the region was evident in the wide-reaching projects that were implemented during Mahama’s time in office.
The former Tema Oil Refinery MD suggested that the Ashanti Region, historically seen as the heart of NPP support, is now reconsidering its allegiance to the party. He stated that many residents in the region have grown frustrated with the lack of tangible improvements and the government’s inability to address their concerns. Darko urged voters in the region to rethink their support for the NPP, claiming that the party has taken the people of Ashanti for granted, especially given the region’s pivotal role in securing NPP victories in past elections.
Darko further advocated for the return of John Dramani Mahama and the NDC to power, arguing that the former president would deliver the development that the Ashanti Region needs. He assured the people of the region that an NDC government would prioritize the completion of stalled projects and the introduction of new initiatives aimed at improving the living standards of Ashanti residents. Darko made a strong case for the NDC, promising a commitment to delivering massive development across all sectors of the economy, should the party win the 2024 elections.
As Ghana heads toward the December 7, 2024, presidential and parliamentary elections, the political landscape appears to be shifting, particularly in the Ashanti Region, once regarded as the NPP’s most loyal base. Darko’s comments underscore a growing sense of dissatisfaction among some voters in the region who feel that the NPP has failed to live up to its promises. With the NPP facing growing opposition from the NDC, the outcome of the elections in the Ashanti Region could have significant implications for both parties.
The 2024 elections are poised to be a major contest between the NPP and NDC, with both parties vying for support from key regions like Ashanti. Darko’s statements indicate that the NPP may no longer be able to count on the Ashanti Region as its reliable base of support, as residents seek a party that will better address their needs and concerns. As the election date draws closer, the NDC appears to be gaining momentum, particularly in regions like Ashanti, where the party has traditionally struggled to secure a strong foothold.
About The Author
