Ohene Kwame Frimpong, an independent parliamentary candidate for the Asante Akim North Constituency, has pledged to establish a plantain processing factory if elected as the next Member of Parliament.
Frimpong, who is also a businessman and philanthropist, emphasised the need for a modern factory to support plantain farms, aiming to reduce post-harvest losses and boost economic growth in the area.
Speaking with Citi News in Agogo during his campaign launch, Frimpong outlined his vision, including plans to establish a military base in the constituency to address security issues faced by farmers, particularly those involving conflicts with Fulani herdsmen.
As the 2024 general elections approach, Asante Akim North remains one of the closely contested seats, with incumbent MP Andy Appiah-Kubi from the New Patriotic Party (NPP) facing strong competition from Frimpong, a former NPP member.
Since its creation in 2013, the constituency has traditionally been a stronghold for the NPP.
However, Frimpong seeks to unseat the incumbent, criticising Appiah-Kubi for failing to address critical needs, such as maintaining the district’s plantain storage facilities under the “One District, One Factory” initiative.
“If the people of Asante Akyim North elect me as their MP, I will ensure the area gets a large storage facility to preserve key crops, such as plantain, tomatoes, and watermelons,” Frimpong stated.
He highlighted that such a facility would help farmers prevent post-harvest losses due to spoilage and maintain crop value.
He also outlined plans to establish multiple factories across the constituency to create jobs for the youth.
Addressing security concerns, Frimpong pledged to work with the government to build a military base along the constituency’s borders to curb issues with Fulani herdsmen. “We need a military presence to protect our farmers and ensure peace without unnecessary violence. A permanent base will deter incursions by herdsmen,” he added.
Frimpong commended the government’s efforts in addressing the Fulani issue but expressed his intent to reinforce these measures locally.
Addressing his decision to run as an independent candidate, he explained that he opted out of the NPP internal race to avoid paying fees to delegates, stating, “Instead of using funds to secure delegate votes, I’m channelling resources toward the constituency’s development.”
Reflecting on his community engagement, Frimpong highlighted his longstanding support for Asante Akyim North, including aid for widows, and people with disabilities, healthcare assistance, and educational sponsorships. “My track record speaks for itself,” he noted.
“I believe the people of Asante Akyim North recognise my efforts and will support me at the polls.”
He further assured constituents that their votes would be safeguarded and called for a peaceful election process.
In the 2020 general elections, NPP’s Andy Appiah-Kubi secured 25,009 votes (63.91%), while the National Democratic Congress candidate, Alhaji Adams Sulley Yussif, garnered 14,123 votes (36.09%).
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