In a surprising turn of events, a prominent member of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Ahafo Ano North Constituency of the Ashanti Region has officially defected to the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), along with over 200 of his supporters.
Hon. Kwabena Osei Bonsu, also known as Osei Bonsu by locals, made the announcement during a press conference, explaining his reasons for leaving the NPP and joining the NDC ahead of the 2024 General Elections. Osei Bonsu, a native of Tepa-Mabang and Akwasiase, previously contested as an independent candidate in the 2020 Parliamentary election for the Ahafo Ano North Constituency.
Although he did not win the seat in 2020, Osei Bonsu garnered a significant number of votes, which he said demonstrated his popularity and influence in the constituency. According to him, despite his efforts and loyalty, the NPP failed to recognize his value, and he felt neglected by the party.
“The NPP did not engage me after the 2020 election, despite the number of votes I secured as an independent candidate. I expected more support and recognition, but that did not happen,” Osei Bonsu told the media. He further revealed that the NDC reached out to him after the election, showing appreciation for his political strength and the potential he holds.
Osei Bonsu also addressed rumors about his actions during the 2020 elections, particularly allegations that he had ignored the President’s call for unity within the NPP. He described the rumors as misleading and said his decision to run as an independent candidate was based on genuine concerns about the direction of the party.
His defection to the NDC marks a significant shift in the political landscape of the Ahafo Ano North Constituency, as the 2024 General Elections approach. His move to the NDC is expected to galvanize support for the opposition in the region.
Welcoming Osei Bonsu and his supporters, the 2024 Parliamentary Candidate for the NDC in Ahafo Ano North, Hon. Akwasi Adusei, expressed his excitement and optimism about the future of the party in the constituency. He described Osei Bonsu’s defection as a major boost for the NDC and assured him and his supporters of a warm welcome into the “Akatamanso family.”
“Hon. Osei Bonsu’s decision to join us is a great victory for the NDC in this constituency. His influence and the support of his followers will undoubtedly strengthen our campaign for the upcoming elections. We are delighted to have him on board, and we are confident that together we will achieve success in 2024,” Hon. Akwasi Adusei stated.
The NDC’s Communications Director for Ahafo Ano North, Hon. Francis Akakpo Elekplem, also spoke about the significance of this development, noting that the defection highlights growing dissatisfaction with the NPP in the region. He added that the NDC is poised to capitalize on this momentum to secure victory in the upcoming elections.
The political dynamics in Ahafo Ano North are expected to intensify as the 2024 General Elections draw near, with Osei Bonsu’s defection signaling a shift in voter allegiances in the constituency.
For further inquiries, the following contacts were provided:
– Hon. Osei Bonsu: 0598215561
– Hon. Akwasi Adusei: 0244136680
– Hon. Francis Akakpo Elekplem (NDC Communications Director): 0248315368