In the highly anticipated Assin North by-election, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) is banking on sympathy votes to secure victory. However, the National Organiser of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), Henry Nana Boakye, has confidently stated that the NDC’s strategy will not work. According to him, the dynamics in the area go beyond mere emotional appeals and call for a competent candidate who upholds the law.
The by-election was triggered by the ousting of James Gyakye Quayson, the former Member of Parliament for Assin North, due to engaging in illegality. Despite facing criminal charges, Mr. Quayson has declared his intention to contest again. This move by the NDC is seen as a risky gamble, as a guilty verdict could result in a 10-year prison sentence with hard labor.
Nana Boakye, speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen programme, accused the NDC of emotional blackmail by retaining Mr. Quayson as their candidate. However, he remains confident that the people of Assin North are discerning and will not be swayed by sympathy votes. “94 percent of the people in Assin North are educated and will not vote solely based on emotions. They deserve a better representative,” he emphasized.
The NPP has diligently conducted groundwork in preparation for the by-election, and they are ready to present a competent candidate to contest for the seat. Nana Boakye urged the voters of Assin North to see beyond theatrics and vote massively for the NPP. He emphasized the need to continue the developmental progress already initiated in the area.
In response to Nana Boakye’s remarks, Joseph Yamin, the National Organiser of the NDC, expressed confidence in their chances of winning. He asserted that the people of Assin North appreciate the achievements of Mr. Quayson and will support him wholeheartedly. However, Nana Boakye’s skepticism suggests that the roads being constructed in the area might not be sufficient to secure victory.
As the by-election draws near, it remains to be seen whether the NDC’s reliance on sympathy votes will triumph over the NPP’s focus on competence and development. Both parties are prepared for a fierce contest, but only time will reveal the outcome. The people of Assin North hold the power to decide their representative, and their decision will shape the future of the constituency.
