The 2020 Ghanaian general elections witnessed a significant shift in the political landscape of the Western Region, with the National Democratic Congress (NDC) securing a resounding victory. The NDC captured 15 out of the 17 parliamentary seats, leaving the New Patriotic Party (NPP) with only two seats in Takoradi and Prestea Huni-Valley. This overwhelming performance by the NDC demonstrates a substantial swing in voter preference and highlights the party’s effective campaigning and resonance with the electorate in the region. The victory is particularly noteworthy given the NDC’s previous performance in the region and signals a potential realignment of political allegiances.
This electoral success was further underscored by the impressive performance of female NDC candidates. All five women contesting on the NDC ticket emerged victorious, showcasing not only the party’s commitment to inclusivity but also the individual candidates’ ability to connect with voters. In contrast, only one of the three NPP female candidates secured a seat. This significant disparity in female representation between the two parties further emphasizes the NDC’s stronger appeal among female voters in the Western Region. The election of these women to parliament is a positive development for gender equality in Ghanaian politics and may inspire greater female participation in future elections.
Several key constituencies switched allegiance in this election cycle. Sekondi, a traditionally competitive seat, was won by the NDC’s Nyameke Armah, marking a significant breakthrough for the party. Similarly, the NDC’s Majeed Dokurugu secured the Effia seat. These victories in closely contested areas highlight the NDC’s ability to mobilize its base and persuade swing voters. The success in these marginal seats is crucial for building a strong parliamentary majority and is indicative of a broader trend in favor of the NDC across the region.
Other notable NDC victories include Fiifi Buckman’s win in Kwesimintsim, Kofi Bentil’s success in Mpohor, and Mavis Bissue’s victory in Ahanta West. Isaac Adjei-Mensah retained his seat in Wassa East, consolidating the NDC’s hold on this constituency. These victories, along with Issah Salif Taylor’s win in Tarkwa-Nsuaem and Nicholas Amankwah’s in Amenfi East, demonstrate the breadth and depth of the NDC’s support across the Western Region. The party’s ability to win in both urban and rural constituencies suggests a broad-based appeal and effective campaign strategy.
The NDC’s dominance extended beyond these individual victories, with Joana Guan Cudjoe winning in Amenfi Central, Emmanuel Kofi Buah Armah securing the Ellembelle seat, and Kofi Arko Nokoe retaining Evalue Ajomoro-Gwira. Dorcas Afo-Toffey’s retention of the Jomoro seat further solidified the NDC’s presence in the region. These victories, coupled with Grace Ayensu-Danquah’s long-awaited win in Essikado-Ketan and Emelia Arthur’s victory in Shama, paint a comprehensive picture of the NDC’s electoral triumph. The party’s success in both retaining existing seats and gaining new ones demonstrates a strong and unified campaign message that resonated with the electorate.
The newly formed Western North Region also saw a strong performance from the NDC, securing eight out of the nine parliamentary seats. The NPP’s only victory in the region came in the Suaman constituency, won by Fredrick Addy. The NDC’s success in the Western North Region underscores the party’s expanding influence and appeal. Victories by Richard Acheampong in Bia East, Mustapha Amadu Tanko in Bia West, Kofi Afful Benteh in Sefwi-Wiawso, Sampson Ahi in Bodi, Kwabena Minta Akandoh in Juaboso, Pius Nkuah in Sefwi-Akontombra, Bright Asamoah Brefo in Bibiani-Anhwiaso-Bekwai, and Oscar O. Larbi in Aowin further cement the NDC’s dominance in the region. This comprehensive victory across multiple constituencies is a testament to the party’s organizational strength and its ability to connect with voters in a diverse range of communities. The scale of the NDC’s victory in both the Western and Western North regions signifies a significant shift in the political landscape and promises considerable influence for the party in national politics.
