In a recent campaign rally held in Okaikwei North, Kennedy Agyapong, the Member of Parliament for Assin Central, has publicly endorsed Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia as the preferred candidate for the upcoming December elections in Ghana. Agyapong presented a compelling case for supporting Bawumia, asserting that electing him would be the most reliable method to ensure the continuity and protection of the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy. This educational initiative, according to Agyapong, has significantly transformed the lives of numerous young Ghanaians, making higher education more accessible and promoting the overall advancement of the youth in the nation.
During his speech, Agyapong took aim at the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) and its former leader, John Mahama, for their historical stance against the Free SHS policy. He recounted past campaign efforts by the NDC, which were vocally critical of the initiative, suggesting that these actions revealed a lack of commitment to education. Agyapong emphasized that a political party which has previously opposed such a critical educational policy should not be given the responsibility to govern it in the future. His assertion serves to underline a broader narrative within the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) about the integrity and trustworthiness of the parties vying for power—and specifically the risks associated with a return of the NDC.
Supporting Agyapong’s claims, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, the NPP’s Vice Presidential Candidate, echoed the message of stability and continued investment in education and the economy. He spotlighted the government’s ongoing efforts to alleviate the high cost of living, which has been a burden for many Ghanaians. Dr. Opoku Prempeh articulated that a Bawumia-led administration would not only safeguard existing policies like Free SHS but would also spearhead initiatives designed to foster a more business-friendly environment, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for the populace.
Agyapong’s appeal was particularly directed towards the community’s market women and traders, urging them to lend their support to both Bawumia and the NPP’s parliamentary candidate, Nana Ama Dokua Asiamah. He framed their votes as crucial not just for preserving the Free SHS policy, but also for ensuring continued development and progress in their local communities. The message aimed to resonate with constituents by linking their everyday struggles and aspirations directly to the policies and promises of the NPP.
In reinforcing the importance of the Free SHS policy, Agyapong illustrated its impact on the lives of students and families across Ghana, transforming education into a more accessible resource rather than a burden. This focus on education aligns with the broader mission of the NPP to promote social mobility and empowerment through learning. The emphasis on this educational initiative reflects a strategic approach, as parties often leverage successful policies to garner electoral support, thus creating a direct connection between governance and voter outcomes.
As the December elections draw closer, the stakes are high for both major political parties in Ghana. Agyapong’s and Opoku Prempeh’s statements serve as part of the NPP’s broader strategy to highlight their successes in office while simultaneously framing the opposition as a potential threat to progress. By focusing on key policies like the Free SHS and addressing economic concerns, the NPP hopes to consolidate its support base and appeal to undecided voters, making the case that a vote for Bawumia is a vote for the future of Ghana’s youth and community development.
