Will the NDC Challenge NPP’s Stronghold in Ablekuma West in the 2024 Elections?.

Ablekuma West constituency

The Ablekuma West constituency, once part of the Ablekuma South constituency and a stronghold of the NPP, is a vibrant area home to professionals, traders, artisans, and students. The local economy thrives on small and medium-sized enterprises, with many residents engaged in trade and commerce.

As the 2024 general elections approach, Ablekuma West is emerging as a significant battleground. Known for its diverse demographics and lively political culture, the constituency is set for a heated contest.

Voting Pattern

Since its creation in 2012, the constituency has consistently elected the NPP’s parliamentary candidate.

• 2012: Ursula Owusu-Ekuful (NPP) won with 36,975 votes (58.22%), while Victoria Hammah (NDC) garnered 26,153 votes (41.18%). Other candidates from the Progressive People’s Party, Peoples National Congress, and the National Democratic Party received 291, 55, and 40 votes, respectively.
• 2016: Ursula Owusu-Ekuful (NPP) secured 34,376 votes (56.96%), defeating Diana Obenewa Twum (NDC) who had 20,976 votes (34.76%).
• 2020: Ursula Owusu-Ekuful (NPP) emerged victorious again with 37,363 votes (54.27%).

Candidates for 2024

• Ursula Owusu-Ekuful (NPP): Seeking re-election, Owusu-Ekuful is a seasoned politician and lawyer who has served as the Minister of Communications and Digitalisation. Her campaign highlights her achievements, particularly the implementation of the SIM card registration exercise, and promises continued development and improved digital infrastructure.
• Rev. Kweku Addo (NDC): The NDC parliamentary candidate aims to connect with the younger demographic and economically marginalized residents, focusing on key issues such as economic development, digital transformation, youth engagement, healthcare, education, and environmental concerns.

Key Issues and Campaign Dynamics

• Economic Development: Emphasis on job creation, entrepreneurship, and beneficial economic policies.
• Digital Transformation: Highlighting the role of digitalisation in development, particularly given Owusu-Ekuful’s background.
• Youth Engagement: Addressing education, employment opportunities, and inclusive governance for the young population.
• Healthcare and Education: Prioritizing access to quality healthcare and education.
• Environmental Concerns: Focusing on waste management and sustainable development, especially among the youth and environmentally conscious voters.

The Opetekwe community, close to the Densu River and home to the Pambros Salt Industries Limited, offers potential for vibrant fishing businesses along the coast.

As the election date nears, the dynamics of the campaign in Ablekuma West will continue to evolve, with each candidate striving to win over the electorate with their vision for the constituency’s future. Voters face a crucial decision that will shape their community for the next four years.