In this year’s parliamentary elections in the Western region of Ghana, a total of eleven women are vying for seats. Among these candidates, five represent the National Democratic Congress (NDC), while three are from the New Patriotic Party (NPP). There are also two independent candidates and one candidate from the Liberal Party of Ghana (LPG). The diversity of political representation among these candidates highlights the evolving role of women in Ghana’s political landscape, with increased participation at various levels of government and distinct party affiliations showcasing the commitment of women to contribute to the legislative process.
Incumbent Member of Parliament Mrs. Dorcas Affo-Toffey is seeking reelection for the Jomoro constituency, facing competition from Mr. Paul Essien of the NPP, independent candidate Madam Samia Nkrumah, and Nana Blay Miezah of the Convention People’s Party (CPP). Affo-Toffey’s candidacy reflects both her experience and the desire to continue her work for her constituents. Similarly, Mrs. Mavis Kuuku Bissue, a first-time candidate, is contesting the Ahanta West seat against Mr. Francis Eric Pobee of the NPP. The presence of both seasoned politicians and newcomers indicates a blend of experience and fresh perspectives in the elections.
Other notable candidates include Mrs. Joana Gyan Cudjoe, who is contesting the Amenfi Central seat alongside three other candidates, and Madam Emilia Arthur, a former Deputy Western Regional Minister, who is competing for the Shama parliamentary seat against Mr. Isaac Kwamina Afful. In the Essikado-Ketan constituency, Dr. Grace Ayensu Danquah aims for reelection against Mr. Charles Cromwell Bissue of the NPP. Meanwhile, Mrs. Catherine Afeku, a former Minister representing the NPP, faces off against Mr. Kofi Arko Nokoe of the NDC in the Evalue-Ajomoro Gwira constituency.
In the Wassa East constituency, Mrs. Getrude Effah Monah is set to contest against Mr. Isaac Mensah, while Madam Barbara Oteng-Gyasi prepares to vie for the Prestea Huni-Valley seat alongside two other candidates. The competition is fierce, and these elections not only represent an opportunity for woman candidates to ascend but also to bring attention to issues relevant to their constituencies. The involvement of independent candidates, such as Madam Samia Nkrumah and Ms. Joy Joycelyn Andoh in Tarkwa Nsuaem, emphasizes the varied political aspirations of women beyond party lines.
Expanding the scope to the Western North Region, two women are also contesting for parliamentary seats. Mrs. Louisa Nkuah Kwayie is representing the Ghana Union Movement (GUM) in the Sefwi Wiawso constituency, while Ms. Ernestina Oppong is seeking election for the Juaboso seat under the banner of the CPP. Their candidacies reflect not only the growing political engagement of women in regions like Western North but also the importance of grassroots representation across different political movements.
Overall, the candidacy of these eleven women in the Western region illustrates a significant moment for women’s political engagement in Ghana. Their diverse affiliations across multiple parties and the inclusion of independent candidates signify a commitment to broadening representation and addressing the unique challenges faced by women in the political arena. As these women prepare for the elections, their efforts may help pave the way for future generations of female leaders in the country, ensuring that women’s voices are adequately represented in Ghana’s legislative processes.
