In an unexpected turn of events, the Atwima Nwabiagya North constituency of the Ashanti Region witnessed a striking display of disunity within the National Democratic Congress (NDC) on Friday, August 16, 2024. Several members of the opposition party openly defied their leadership’s directives, choosing instead to rally behind the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi.
The NDC supporters, numbering in the dozens, took to the streets of Barekese, the constituency capital, to campaign alongside Chairman Wontumi. The surprising coalition was marked by the enthusiastic chanting of NPP campaign songs and sharing of the same platform with their traditional political rivals.
“We’re tired of the NDC’s empty promises; Chairman Wontumi has shown us that he cares about our constituency,” declared one of the defecting NDC members, highlighting the growing discontent within the ranks of the opposition party.
Despite the presence of NDC leadership at the event, their attempts to dissuade their members from participating in the NPP’s campaign were met with staunch resistance. “We can’t force them to stay, they have made up their minds,” lamented one NDC leader, reflecting the sense of helplessness in the face of this public display of dissent.
Chairman Wontumi, who is currently on a regional tour aimed at revitalizing the NPP’s base, restoring hope among its members, and engaging with the electorate, appeared unfazed by the controversy. “We’re not surprised by the NDC members’ decision to join us; our message of hope and development is resonating with the people,” he stated confidently.
The unexpected alliance has raised significant questions about the future of the defecting NDC members and the broader implications for the party’s unity as the country gears up for the upcoming elections. Chairman Wontumi, however, views this as a sign of the NDC’s weakening influence in the region. “This is a clear indication of the NDC’s weakness; we’re confident of winning the elections,” he concluded.
