As the 2024 general elections draw near, supporters of various political parties are ramping up their campaign efforts through donations and grassroots activities. Prominent among these supporters is Mr. Gavinus Anaba, a dedicated member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) from the Bolgatanga Central Constituency in the Upper East Region of Ghana. True to his commitment to the NDC, Mr. Anaba has made a significant contribution by donating NDC-branded T-shirts to women’s groups, youth organizations, and local supporters. His contributions are part of a broader strategy to energize supporters and galvanize voter turnout as the party prepares for the election, emphasizing the importance of unity and purpose within the party ranks.
During the T-shirt presentation, Mr. Anaba indicated that his donation was a direct response to a call from the constituency secretary, who sought assistance to further the party’s campaign activities. He expressed a clear agenda: to consolidate support for the NDC’s presidential candidate, John Dramani Mahama, and the parliamentary candidate for Bolgatanga Central, Hon. Isaac Adongo. Mr. Anaba stressed the critical need for the party’s base to eschew “skirt and blouse” voting—where voters split their votes between different parties for various positions—and focus on a cohesive party vote to ensure success at the polls. His emphatic message called for collective action and strong mobilization efforts to secure the necessary votes for victory.
Mr. Anaba also urged party executives and supporters to enhance their grassroots campaigns through door-to-door initiatives, a tactic deemed essential for effectively communicating the NDC’s promises and policies, particularly the 24-hour economy policy which aims to alleviate economic challenges. He underscored the urgency of reaching every household to relay these messages, emphasizing that local engagement is vital in building momentum and fostering a sense of community involvement in the electoral process. Mr. Anaba’s call for action portrays a proactive approach, showcasing the essential role of local leaders and supporters in driving campaign initiatives forward.
The T-shirts were received by Mr. Isaac Ayemvoya, the NDC Constituency Secretary for Bolgatanga Central, who expressed deep appreciation for Mr. Anaba’s unwavering support. His recognition of Mr. Anaba’s contributions also highlights the collaborative spirit within the party, while underscoring the continuous need for resources to bolster campaign efforts. Mr. Ayemvoya remarked on the party’s encouraging progress regarding grassroots organizing, affirming the strength and determination of NDC supporters despite logistical challenges facing their campaign materials—specifically, a reported shortage of NDC-branded T-shirts within the constituency and the wider region.
Mr. Ayemvoya highlighted the growing demand for NDC materials among supporters, noting a stark contrast with the distribution of T-shirts by the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP). This observation points to a critical aspect of the election campaign: the competition for visibility and recognition among constituents. His anecdote about supporters expressing preferences for NDC items over those of the NPP reflects the inclinations of voters and the urgency for the NDC to bolster its presence in the lead-up to the election. It suggests that effective grassroots strategies not only facilitate donations and support but are also integral in reclaiming the narrative and enthusiasm among potential voters.
As the December 7 elections approach, there is a palpable sense of optimism within the NDC ranks. Both Mr. Anaba and Mr. Ayemvoya expressed confidence in securing victory for Hon. Isaac Adongo in Bolgatanga Central and John Dramani Mahama in the presidential race. This confidence underscores a strategic focus on campaigning that resonates at a local level, leveraging community engagement and building on past successes. The NDC’s emphasis on unity, the sharing of materials, and the solicitation of local support encapsulate a well-rounded approach aimed at maximizing voter turnout and reinforcing party loyalty. Ultimately, these efforts encapsulate the essence of political campaigns, where local actions contribute significantly to broader electoral outcomes, especially in a tightly contested political landscape such as Ghana’s.
