In a dramatic turn of events during Ghana’s 2024 parliamentary elections, Abdul Rauf Tongym Tubazu of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) secured a significant victory in Ayawaso Central, unseating incumbent Member of Parliament Henry Quartey of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
Tubazu received a total of 29,755 votes, decisively surpassing Quartey’s 23,345 votes. Meanwhile, Charles Kwame Adams of the National Democratic Party (NDP) managed only 163 votes, an outcome that underscored the lack of substantial support for smaller parties in this hotly contested constituency. Out of the total 53,550 votes cast in Ayawaso Central, 287 ballots were deemed invalid, reflecting a small but noteworthy number of voter errors.
The defeat of Henry Quartey, a prominent figure in the NPP, marks a pivotal shift in Ayawaso Central, a constituency long considered a competitive stronghold for both the NPP and NDC. Quartey, who served as the MP for the constituency and was widely recognized for his efforts in public service, now joins a growing list of high-profile NPP incumbents who have lost their seats to the opposition NDC in the 2024 elections. His loss highlights a broader trend of dissatisfaction among voters, who appear to have sought alternative leadership and policies to address their pressing concerns.
The victory of Tubazu in Ayawaso Central is emblematic of the NDC’s growing momentum nationwide, as the party has achieved other notable successes, particularly in flipping parliamentary seats in Mpohor and Sekondi—two constituencies that were previously considered strongholds of the ruling NPP. These wins signify a broader realignment in Ghana’s political landscape, with voters across different regions expressing a strong desire for change.
In Mpohor, the NDC’s Henry Godfred Bentil pulled off a decisive victory against incumbent MP John Kobina Abbam Aboah Sanie. Bentil garnered 11,680 votes, securing a commanding lead over Sanie, who received 8,299 votes. This result underscores the NDC’s ability to penetrate areas traditionally dominated by the NPP, reflecting a growing confidence in the party’s leadership and vision for the future. The win in Mpohor is particularly significant given the constituency’s historical voting patterns, which have often leaned toward the NPP.
Similarly, Sekondi witnessed another major upset, as Blay Nyameke Armah of the NDC triumphed over Andrew Egyapa Mercer, the incumbent MP and a stalwart of the NPP. Armah secured 14,558 votes, representing 56.40% of the total votes cast, while Mercer managed 11,084 votes, equivalent to 42.94%. The constituency recorded a total of 25,813 votes, with 171 ballots rejected. Armah’s victory not only solidifies the NDC’s influence in the Western Region but also demonstrates the party’s strategic approach to contesting key seats and resonating with the electorate’s priorities.
These victories are not isolated incidents but part of a broader trend that underscores the NDC’s ability to consolidate support across diverse regions and demographics. The party’s campaign, which emphasized inclusivity, economic reforms, and a commitment to transparency, appears to have struck a chord with voters who are eager for change after years of NPP dominance.
The implications of these results extend beyond the individual constituencies. The NDC’s gains in Ayawaso Central, Mpohor, and Sekondi contribute to a broader narrative of political transformation. By flipping these key constituencies, the NDC has enhanced its parliamentary representation, positioning itself as a stronger opposition force capable of influencing policy and holding the government accountable.
For the NPP, the losses in these constituencies serve as a wake-up call, highlighting the urgent need for the party to reconnect with its base and address the concerns of the electorate. The party’s inability to retain these seats, despite its historical stronghold in these areas, signals a disconnect between its policies and the priorities of voters. Many constituents have cited issues such as rising unemployment, economic hardships, and a perceived lack of transparency in governance as contributing factors to the NPP’s declining support.
In Ayawaso Central, for instance, voters expressed dissatisfaction with the pace of development and the handling of key issues affecting their daily lives. Similar sentiments were echoed in Mpohor and Sekondi, where constituents called for greater accountability and more inclusive representation. These concerns, combined with the NDC’s targeted campaign strategy, likely played a pivotal role in shifting voter allegiance.
The high voter turnout across these constituencies further underscores the electorate’s determination to effect change. In Ayawaso Central, the 53,550 votes cast reflect a strong engagement level, while in Mpohor and Sekondi, the significant voter turnout demonstrates a shared commitment to shaping the future of their communities. Despite the challenges posed by invalid ballots, the overall results highlight the vibrancy and resilience of Ghanaian democracy.
As the NDC celebrates these victories, party leaders have emphasized the importance of maintaining the momentum and delivering on their campaign promises. Analysts believe that the NDC’s ability to capitalize on this wave of support will be crucial as the party positions itself for the upcoming presidential election. The parliamentary gains also provide the NDC with a stronger platform to advocate for its policies and push for reforms that address the needs of ordinary Ghanaians.
Meanwhile, the NPP faces an uphill battle in rebuilding its image and addressing the grievances of its supporters. The party’s leadership has acknowledged the need for introspection and has pledged to undertake a comprehensive review of its strategies to better align with the aspirations of the electorate.
In conclusion, the 2024 parliamentary elections have ushered in a new political dynamic in Ghana. The NDC’s victories in Ayawaso Central, Mpohor, and Sekondi are not merely electoral wins but a testament to the party’s growing influence and ability to connect with voters across the country. These results will undoubtedly shape the political discourse in the years to come, influencing governance, policy-making, and the broader trajectory of Ghana’s democratic journey.
