As the 2024 general elections draw closer, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) is eyeing a significant win in its stronghold, the Ashanti Region. However, Dr. George Domfeh, a Senior Research Fellow in Public Sector Economics, has predicted that achieving 76% of the votes in the region will be an uphill task for the party. Speaking on Adom FM’s morning show, Dwaso Nsem, Dr. Domfeh shared insights from a recent survey conducted by the Institute of Progressive Governance (IPG), which highlights the challenges and opportunities for the NPP as it campaigns to secure another term in office.
The Ashanti Region has long been a reliable support base for the NPP, delivering massive wins in previous elections. Yet, the target of 76% set by the party is far from guaranteed. According to Dr. Domfeh, the survey found that the NPP had secured 61% of the votes in the region at the time of the survey, with 15% of voters undecided. Even if the party manages to convince all undecided voters to cast their ballots in its favor, the total would reach about 70%, still short of the ambitious 76% target.
Dr. Domfeh explained that while the NPP remains dominant in the region, certain factors make this target difficult to achieve. "At the time of the survey, they had 61% of the votes, and 15% of the electorate were undecided. Even if all these people decide to vote for the NPP, they can get about 70%, but crossing 76% will be very challenging," he stated.
Despite these challenges, the NPP has been working hard to regain momentum. Dr. Domfeh noted that Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s recent visits to the region might have rekindled support for the party. "Some people who earlier said they wouldn’t vote are now actively campaigning for the NPP. If this trend continues, the party may secure 70% of the votes," he added.
Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi and the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the NPP, remains confident that the party can achieve even more. He has boldly claimed that the NPP could secure as much as 85% of the votes in the Ashanti Region. However, many political analysts believe that such an outcome is highly unlikely, given the current voter sentiments and the competition posed by other political parties.
The survey conducted by the IPG also sheds light on the broader national political landscape. If elections had been held between October 15 and November 15, 2024, the results would have been very close. The NPP was projected to win with 50.2% of the national vote, while the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) would have secured 47.3%. Other presidential candidates were expected to account for the remaining 2.5% of the votes.
Regionally, the survey indicated that the NPP was likely to win in the North East, Bono, Ahafo, Western, Central, Eastern, and Ashanti regions. On the other hand, the NDC was predicted to dominate in Greater Accra, Volta, Bono East, Savannah, Western North, Upper East, Upper West, Oti, and Northern regions. These projections underline the intense competition between the two main political parties as they battle for control of key regions.
For the NPP, the Ashanti Region is crucial to its chances of winning the election. The party has always relied on the region to deliver high voter turnout and overwhelming support, which often compensates for weaker performances in other regions. However, maintaining such dominance is becoming increasingly challenging. Economic hardships, voter apathy, and dissatisfaction among some party supporters have raised concerns about whether the NPP can mobilize the same level of support it enjoyed in the past.
Dr. Domfeh emphasized the importance of addressing these issues to maximize voter turnout. He believes that while the NPP is in a strong position in the Ashanti Region, it cannot afford to be complacent. "The party needs to work harder to win back the trust of undecided voters and address any concerns that might discourage their supporters from voting," he advised.
As election day approaches, the NPP is doubling down on its efforts to solidify its base in the Ashanti Region. Campaign activities have intensified, with key party figures, including Vice President Bawumia, engaging directly with voters. The party is also focusing on grassroots mobilization and addressing pressing local issues to strengthen its appeal.
While the goal of 76% remains a daunting challenge, the NPP’s leadership believes that with the right strategy and determination, they can achieve a significant victory in the region. Whether this confidence translates into actual votes, however, will depend on how effectively the party can connect with voters and overcome the obstacles highlighted in the IPG survey.
The 2024 elections are shaping up to be one of the most competitive in recent history, with both the NPP and the NDC working tirelessly to secure victory. For the NPP, the Ashanti Region will once again play a pivotal role in determining the outcome. Only time will tell if the party can achieve its ambitious targets and retain its hold on power.
blogpay
Total Comments: 0