The New Patriotic Party (NPP) is grappling with unprecedented setbacks following the 2024 parliamentary elections, with several prominent Members of Parliament losing their seats to the National Democratic Congress (NDC). The results signal a major shift in Ghana’s political landscape, with the NDC making inroads into constituencies traditionally dominated by the NPP.
Among the most notable defeats is that of KT Hammond, the veteran MP for Adansi Asokwa, who has been a key figure in the NPP for years. Hammond polled 13,275 votes but was unseated by the NDC’s Godwin Animli Dorgbadzi Dorani, who secured 14,229 votes. The race also included Mensah Abraham Justice of the Convention People’s Party (CPP), who managed just 346 votes. Hammond’s loss marks the end of an era in Adansi Asokwa, as the NDC’s victory signifies a shift in voter preferences in the region.
Dakoa Newman, the incumbent MP for Okaikwei South, joined the growing list of NPP casualties. Once seen as a rising star within the party, Newman’s defeat highlights the challenges the NPP faces in maintaining its influence in urban constituencies.
Perhaps the most shocking result came from the Ablekuma West constituency, where Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, a high-profile MP and former Minister of Communications, suffered a resounding defeat. Owusu-Ekuful garnered 26,575 votes but was overtaken by the NDC’s Rev. Kweku Addo, who won with 31,866 votes. The loss of such a prominent figure underscores the challenges the NPP encountered in maintaining support in key constituencies.
In Ayawaso Central, another blow was dealt to the NPP as Henry Quartey, a widely recognized MP, was unseated by the NDC’s Abdul Rauf Tongym Tubazu. Quartey received 23,345 votes, falling short of Tubazu’s 29,755 votes. The National Democratic Party’s (NDP) Charles Kwame Adams garnered a meager 163 votes, while 287 ballots were rejected as invalid. Quartey’s defeat marks a significant loss for the NPP in one of its traditionally strong urban constituencies.
The NPP also lost ground in Bortianor Ngleshie Amanfro, where Sylvester Tetteh failed to retain his seat. Tetteh garnered 27,888 votes but was outpaced by Okle Felix Akwetey of the NDC, who secured an impressive 37,473 votes. This decisive victory further highlights the NDC’s growing dominance in critical areas.
In the Dormaa East constituency, Twum Barima, the incumbent NPP MP, narrowly lost his seat after polling 12,050 votes. His challenger, Rachel Owusuaa of the NDC, emerged victorious with 12,310 votes. The close margin reflects the intense competition between the two major parties in constituencies where voter preferences are becoming increasingly unpredictable.
The NDC’s resounding performance across these constituencies underscores a growing momentum that has reshaped the political map of Ghana. The party has successfully reclaimed key strongholds and made significant inroads into areas long considered NPP bastions.
For the NPP, the election results have been a wake-up call. Many political analysts attribute the party’s underperformance to a combination of factors, including economic challenges, governance concerns, and voter dissatisfaction with the current administration. The loss of several high-profile MPs has prompted calls within the party for introspection and a reevaluation of its policies and strategies.
The NDC, on the other hand, has emerged as a rejuvenated political force. Its ability to secure decisive victories in traditionally competitive constituencies reflects the effectiveness of its campaign strategy, which emphasized grassroots engagement and addressing the concerns of ordinary Ghanaians. Party leaders have credited their success to a commitment to inclusivity and responsiveness to the electorate’s needs.
The victories have also created new opportunities and responsibilities for the NDC. The party now faces the challenge of consolidating its gains and delivering on the promises it made during the campaign. Expectations are high, and the electorate will be closely watching the party’s performance in the coming years.
The results of the 2024 parliamentary elections have also sparked discussions about the future of Ghana’s political landscape. The NPP’s losses have highlighted the need for the party to rebuild its base and reconnect with voters. At the same time, the NDC’s resurgence has underscored the importance of adaptability and responsiveness in an evolving democracy.
In addition to the high-profile defeats, the NPP struggled to maintain its grip on many other constituencies. Political observers have noted that the party’s inability to address pressing economic issues, such as unemployment and inflation, played a significant role in its poor performance. The election results have also raised questions about the effectiveness of the NPP’s campaign strategy and its engagement with grassroots supporters.
For the NDC, the election results mark a turning point. The party’s strong showing has reinvigorated its base and positioned it as a formidable force in Ghanaian politics. The victories in key constituencies have not only bolstered the party’s confidence but also given it a renewed mandate to influence the nation’s policy direction.
As Ghana navigates the aftermath of the elections, both parties face critical challenges. The NPP must confront the implications of its losses and work toward rebuilding trust with the electorate. The NDC, meanwhile, must seize the opportunity to deliver on its promises and demonstrate its capacity to govern effectively.
The 2024 parliamentary elections will be remembered as a pivotal moment in Ghana’s political history. The results reflect the dynamic nature of the country’s democracy and the electorate’s desire for change. As both parties chart their paths forward, the ultimate focus remains on the progress and well-being of the Ghanaian people.
