Paragraph 1: Setting the Stage for Democratic Dialogue
The tranquil town of Kwabeng in Ghana’s Eastern Region became a hub of political discourse on November 23, 2024, hosting a crucial platform for democratic engagement. Organized by the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) and the Inter-Party Dialogue Committee (IPDC), the event was designed to provide a space for parliamentary candidates contesting the Atiwa West Constituency to present their manifestos and engage with their constituents. This interaction aimed to foster transparency and accountability within the electoral process, allowing voters to make informed decisions based on the candidates’ proposed policies and visions for the constituency’s future. The event highlighted the importance of such platforms in promoting a vibrant and participatory democracy.
Paragraph 2: NDC Candidate Addresses Key Concerns
Dr. Dennis Owusu-Appiah Ofosuapea, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) parliamentary candidate, was the sole candidate present, seizing the opportunity to articulate his vision for Atiwa West. Addressing a range of pressing issues, including agriculture, health, education, security, and the economy, Dr. Ofosuapea focused on areas he believed required urgent attention and presented his plans for improvement. He positioned himself as a responsive leader, keen to address the challenges faced by the constituents and propel the constituency toward progress. The absence of other candidates left the stage open for Dr. Ofosuapea to present a comprehensive and uninterrupted account of his proposed policies.
Paragraph 3: Revitalizing Agriculture and Bolstering Security
In the agricultural sector, Dr. Ofosuapea pledged to restore Atiwa West to its former glory as a major food producer in the Eastern Region. His plan hinges on establishing an investment bank within the constituency to provide financial backing for farmers interested in large-scale agricultural ventures. Recognizing the area’s rich water resources, he also proposed equipping locals with the necessary tools and resources to establish fish ponds, fostering a diversified and thriving agricultural landscape. On security, Dr. Ofosuapea highlighted the NDC’s nationwide strategy for a 24-hour economy, arguing that this would enhance overall security. He further committed to prioritizing the recruitment of Atiwa West’s youth into the various security services, offering a pathway to financial independence and contributing to community safety.
Paragraph 4: Combating Illegal Mining and Promoting Education
The persistent issue of illegal mining also took center stage. While acknowledging the difficulty in completely eradicating both small- and large-scale illegal mining operations, Dr. Ofosuapea advocated for land reclamation as a crucial step towards environmental recovery. He unveiled a plan to allocate $2 million to individuals willing to embark on alternative businesses, diverting them from illegal mining activities. Furthermore, he outlined the NDC’s intention to employ workers specifically for the rehabilitation of lands degraded by mining, demonstrating a commitment to environmental sustainability. In the education sector, Dr. Ofosuapea pledged to uphold the district assembly’s constitutional mandate of ensuring access to education for underprivileged children and orphans, aligning with Ghana’s broader education policy.
Paragraph 5: Economic Critique and Calls for Unity
Dr. Ofosuapea leveled criticism against the NPP’s economic management, accusing the ruling party of accumulating excessive debt. He characterized the NPP as the most indebted government in Ghana’s history, alleging that despite substantial borrowing from foreign donors, infrastructural deficits remained unaddressed, and a clear accounting of the funds was lacking. The event also highlighted the importance of peaceful and respectful engagement within the political landscape. Akyem Muosohene Osabarima Dr. Owusu Beyeeman, who chaired the event, commended the organizers for facilitating dialogue between parties and their constituents, and praised Dr. Ofosuapea’s commitment to improving Atiwa West. He urged all political actors to prioritize development and maintain peace beyond the election cycle.
Paragraph 6: Fostering Informed Participation and Peaceful Elections
The program moderator, Mercy Adjoa Bonnie, Atiwa West District GNAT Secretary, underscored the event’s objective: to elicit responses from candidates on key issues identified through IPDC and NCCE surveys. She emphasized the importance of peace and unity among supporters, cautioning against politically motivated violence. Reverend Stephen Dwamena Kwateng of the Assemblies of God Church in Kwabeng echoed these sentiments, stressing the importance of respecting diverse opinions and uniting behind the winning party after the elections to preserve law and order. Joseph Owusu Koranteng, the Atiwa West District Director of the NCCE, discussed the commission’s ongoing survey on voter concerns and lamented the lack of resources for comprehensive voter education. He urged all parties to focus on campaign messages that promote development and unity, reinforcing the core principles of a peaceful and participatory democracy.
