NPP Opens Nominations for Manhyia South: In anticipation of an impending by-election, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) started the nomination process for the Manhyia South parliamentary primary.

This decision comes after Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, the minister of energy, was chosen to be Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia of the NPP’s running mate in the 2024 general election.

The NPP General Secretary, Justin Kodua Frimpong, announced on July 5, 2024, that the primary was set for July 14, 2024, and that the nomination period would end on July 9, 2024.

In order to get a nomination form, prospective parliamentary candidates must pay GH₵3,000.00, which is a non-refundable application fee. Women, youth, and persons with disabilities (PWDs) receive a 50% rebate on the filing fees, paying GH₵17,500.00 instead of the standard GH₵35,000.00.

The Elections Committee Chairman, Danquah Smith Butey, said that the early nomination closing is intended to speed up the electoral process.

He underlined that in the event of an MP’s death, appointment as an ambassador, or choice as a running partner, the party’s constitution requires a by-election.

For the Manhyia South seat, several possible contenders have surfaced. Prominent figures comprise;

• Nana Owusu Afriyie Prempeh: Constituency Treasurer and Dr. Opoku Prempeh’s brother.
• Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah: Private legal practitioner.
• Akwasi Coker Gyambibi: Deputy Chief Executive of the Petroleum Hub Development Corporation.
• Nana Ama Timah: Manhyia South Constituency Second Vice Chairman.
• Kingsley Bonsu Kyeretwie: Lawyer.

To gain support for their campaigns, some have started interacting with delegates.

On July 4, 2024, the party’s National Council formally endorsed Dr. Opoku Prempeh, also referred to as “NAPO.” President Akufo-Addo commended the Bawumia-Prempeh ticket, emphasizing how the party will benefit from their combined experience and knowledge.

The BIRDD applauded the nomination of Dr. Opoku Prempeh, highlighting his leadership abilities and contributions to Ghana’s advancement, especially in the areas of economic and educational policies.

The institute expressed faith in his capacity to further the values advocated by the previous prime minister of Ghana, Dr. K.A. Busia.

The vice-presidential candidate, Dr. Opoku Prempeh, was deemed unfit by Benjamin Kofi Quashie, the chair of the NDC’s South Africa Council of Elders.

He noted earlier disputes that occurred while NAPO was Minister of Education and Energy, including disagreements with teacher unions, claims of financial mismanagement, and contentious policy decisions.