In the lead-up to the December 7, 2024 elections, Mr. Benjamin Kofi Quashie, the Chair of the South African Council of Elders for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), is calling for robust support for the party and its flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, particularly from the Volta Region. Mr. Quashie emphasizes that a government led by Mahama would prioritize significant development initiatives in this region, which has been a stronghold for the NDC. During a recent interview on Accra 100.5 FM, he reassured voters that the new government would treat the Volta Region with unprecedented care and investment. He highlighted the importance of the region maintaining its status as the party’s “World Bank,” ensuring that the people would reap tangible benefits from targeted developmental projects.
Reflecting on the NDC’s disappointing performance in the 2020 elections, Mr. Quashie pointed to voter apathy as a critical factor, particularly in regions where the party traditionally enjoys strong support, including Volta. He suggested that many loyal supporters felt overlooked and unappreciated by the party, leading to a decline in enthusiasm and voter turnout. However, he expressed optimism, indicating that the NDC has learned valuable lessons from past mistakes. The party is now committed to revitalizing its support base through grassroots activities and direct interactions with voters, aiming to instill a sense of appreciation among its constituents.
Mr. Quashie underscored that Mahama’s renewed focus on the Volta Region’s developmental needs resonates with the electorate. He noted a shift in political conversations, moving away from previous tactics characterized by “deceit, lies, and vote-buying” to genuinely addressing the pressing economic challenges faced by the community. According to Quashie, the electorate is increasingly aware of the NDC’s intentions and policies, which has positively changed the political dynamics in the region. This newfound engagement demonstrates a potential for a stronger coalition between the party and voters, fostering a more community-centric political discourse.
In line with their new strategy, the NDC is focusing on community engagement rather than large public rallies. Mr. Quashie described how party members have been visiting neighborhoods to educate residents and actively listen to their concerns. For instance, his visit to Branda Toni revealed residents living in isolation, which highlighted the need for direct dialogue to understand the developmental gaps present in the region. This shift from traditional campaign methods to personalized engagement indicates a strategic pivot aimed at establishing deeper connections with voters, which could prove crucial as the elections approach.
Furthermore, Mr. Quashie remains hopeful about the NDC parliamentary candidates in Volta, who have been diligently working to foster relationships with local constituents. He expressed belief that if such strategies had been employed in past elections, the outcomes might have been significantly different. The NDC’s current approach—prioritizing local engagement and addressing residents’ specific needs—positions the party to potentially optimize voter mobilization and support as election day draws near.
As the campaign progresses, Mr. Quashie confidently predicts a positive response from voters in the Volta Region. He believes that the intensified efforts undertaken by the NDC in engaging with the community and reinforcing their commitment to local development will convert into substantial support for John Mahama and the party’s parliamentary candidates. As he concluded, he is optimistic that this engagement will result in a resounding victory for the NDC, solidifying their ties with the Volta Region and reaffirming its vital role in the party’s overall success.
