In a significant political development, over 20,000 former members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Ashanti Region have defected to the National Democratic Congress (NDC). The group, which announced their defection prior to the just-ended general elections, has now expressed their congratulations to H.E. John Dramani Mahama, the newly elected president of Ghana, on his victory in the polls.
The announcement of their defection was made at Suame-Magazine, a bustling industrial area in the Ashanti Region, where the group gathered to publicly declare their support for Mahama and the NDC ahead of the parliamentary and presidential elections.
Speaking on behalf of the defectors, the leader of the group, Mohammed Issa Ababio, affectionately known as Mallam Issah, stated that the decision to join the NDC was driven by the need for an improved standard of living. The group expressed deep dissatisfaction with the current economic situation under the ruling NPP government and the severe hardships they had been facing.
“We would like to extend our heartfelt congratulations to the president-elect, John Dramani Mahama, on his decisive victory. His win is a testament to the trust Ghanaians have placed in him, and we believe he will work tirelessly to alleviate the economic burdens the people of Ghana are enduring,” Mallam Issah said in a statement.
He continued, “Despite the challenges he faced during the campaign, we, as former members of the NPP, have no regrets in supporting him. We are confident that President Mahama will fulfill his promises and lead Ghana towards a brighter future.”
The group emphasized that their defection was not out of political rivalry, but out of genuine concern for the well-being of Ghanaians. They stated that Mahama’s vision and policies offered a more sustainable path to prosperity, particularly for the people in the Ashanti Region, who they said had been neglected by the current government.
The defection of over 20,000 members from the NPP to the NDC marks a significant shift in the political landscape of the Ashanti Region, long considered a stronghold of the NPP. The move could have a substantial impact on future elections in the region, signaling a potential shift in voter loyalty.
The NDC has welcomed the defection, with party officials expressing their appreciation for the support. They have reiterated their commitment to fulfilling the promises made during the campaign, particularly in addressing the economic challenges facing the country.
As President-elect John Dramani Mahama prepares to assume office, the defection of these former NPP members adds to the growing momentum behind his administration. It reflects a broader desire among some Ghanaians for change and better governance, and Mahama will likely aim to address the concerns of those who have expressed support for his leadership.
The NDC’s victory and the defection of these members are seen as a clear mandate from the people for Mahama to take swift action on the issues facing the country. With promises of economic relief and development, Mahama now faces the task of uniting a divided electorate and fulfilling the expectations of those who have placed their trust in him.
As the country moves forward under the leadership of President-elect Mahama, the focus will be on how he navigates the challenges ahead and works to ensure a prosperous future for all Ghanaians, including those who made the bold decision to switch their allegiance in search of change.