In the build-up to the December general elections in Ghana, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) is making a concerted effort to rally support in the Mfantseman Constituency. Mr. Sammy Gyamfi, the National Communications Officer of the NDC, has been vocal in his criticism of the incumbent Member of Parliament, Madam Ophelia Hayford. During community engagements in fishing communities like Abandze and Kromantse, Gyamfi characterized Hayford as a “non-performing MP” who lacks the effectiveness and advocacy skills necessary for impactful representation in Parliament. He noted that her presence in the legislative body has not contributed positively to the constituency, which is crucial for its development and the welfare of its residents.
The NDC is positioning itself as the alternative for voters in Mfantseman by advocating for a change in leadership. They are introducing Dr. Prince Kojo Arhin, the party’s parliamentary candidate, as a solution to the perceived inadequacies of the incumbent. Gyamfi praised Arhin’s professional background in Human Resource management and described him as accomplished and dynamic. He expressed confidence that Arhin would provide quality and meaningful representation for the constituents, contrasting this with Hayford’s tenure, characterized by stagnancy and a lack of substantive contributions in Parliament.
During his campaign, Gyamfi also aimed to connect with the voters on a personal level, making appeals for community projects that have stalled or lacked support. The call for development and improvements in local facilities is a significant part of the election dialogue, highlighting the immediate needs of constituents in areas like Kromantse. Responding to a request from a local chief concerning a community center project, the NDC delegation demonstrated their commitment to addressing local issues through a donation of GHS10,000. This gesture aligns with their broader campaign strategy to show responsiveness to the constituents’ needs and foster goodwill within the community.
The narrative surrounding the upcoming elections pits the NDC against the incumbent government, as Gyamfi seeks to paint a stark contrast between the NDC’s vision for Mfantseman and the alleged ineffectiveness of the current MP. His rhetoric reinforces the urgency of electing leaders who genuinely prioritize the interests of the people over mere participation in government. By labeling Hayford as contributing to the stagnation of development, Gyamfi serves to galvanize support for Arhin as a candidate capable of providing the necessary leadership to drive progress in the constituency.
Moreover, the emphasis on local engagement and community improvement underlines the NDC’s campaign ethos, which seeks to cultivate a sense of trust and partnership with the electorates. Gyamfi’s actions and words resonate with voters’ frustrations over the lack of significant advocacy and representation in Parliament, encouraging them to consider the potential benefits of a new leadership era with Arhin at the forefront. The NDC’s approach aims to connect deeply with grassroots issues, creating a narrative that invites constituents to envision a better future under their proposed leadership.
As the elections draw nearer, the NDC will undoubtedly continue to focus on community outreach and engagement as pivotal strategies to sway voter sentiment. With speeches aimed at highlighting the shortcomings of the incumbent MP and promoting Dr. Prince Arhin’s qualifications and vision, the NDC seeks to foster a renewed sense of hope and direction for the Mfantseman Constituency. The challenge ahead will be to maintain momentum and translate these grassroots efforts into tangible electoral success that reflects the aspirations and needs of the communities within the constituency.
