As Ghana approaches the December 7 polls, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) is looking to make significant gains in the Ashanti Region by targeting the National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) four seats, with the Ejura-Sekyedumase constituency being a focal point.
The NDC, however, is preparing for a tough fight, with incumbent MP Mohammed Bawa Braimah seeking a third term. Adding intensity to the race, the NPP’s Gifty Ndoma has emerged as a strong contender.
Ejura-Sekyedumase, one of the Ashanti Region’s key farming hubs, is home to a large settler population, with many residents originally from northern Ghana. The Ghana Statistical Service’s 2021 census data records a population of 137,672 for the constituency, with Channel One News’ research indicating a current voter population of 67,827.
Historically, Ejura-Sekyedumase has been an NDC stronghold and remains one of only four NDC-held seats out of the Ashanti Region’s 47 parliamentary seats. Since 2000, the NDC has won every election here, except in 2012, when the NPP caused an upset. The NDC attributed this loss to internal conflicts, which they resolved to secure subsequent victories.
As incumbent Mohammed Bawa Braimah seeks a third term, the NPP is mounting a strong challenge with Gifty Ndoma, who expresses confidence in winning the upcoming election.
Channel One News thus visited the area to engage traders and transport operators on the chances of the two leading political parties.
“This government has worsened the economic situation. Inflation has risen to the highest level. So, we a need change,” a trader lamented.
Another trader added “I’ve been trading since I was a child, so I’ve witnessed different governments, but this one is the worst. So, we are voting to bring back former President John Mahama and the incumbent MP, Mohammed Bawa Braimah for the country’s progress.”
“The country is in crisis economically. So, we need a president who can make things better for us. Either NPP or NDC, our interest is in a president that has policies that can improve the economy,” a butcher noted.
“There is severe hardship in this administration. This government is a disappointment. I’m saying this because this is not what we were promised. Inflation is at its highest. Prices of goods have increased significantly and that is affecting us,” says a driver.
Channel One News further gathered views from constituents on the upcoming election.
“There is severe hardship in the country, and with the little money we earn, it’s challenging to afford anything, especially as dressmakers. We are pleading with the government for quick relief if the NPP wants to be retained, as we are really struggling,” says a seamstress.
“Since I graduated from high school in 2016, things have been tough. Nana Addo [President] has not been able to fulfil all his promises, so we want to give Mahama a chance to see if things will improve. Our country’s politics is dominated by either the NDC or NPP, so I believe we, as Ghanaians, should try the NDC,” another resident of Ejura stated.
The NPP in Ejura-Sekyedumase is optimistic about victory, having ramped up its campaign efforts across the constituency.
“People of Ejura-Sekyedumase now believe that the current MP is incompetent and for that matter, they are giving Madam Gifty a try. The NPP parliamentary candidate is requesting for only four years,” NPP Ejura-Sekyedumase constituency secretary stated.
Meanwhile, the NDC’s Mohammed Bawa Braimah remains confident that he is the right choice for Ejura-Sekyedumase.
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By: Fati Aminu
