Election Watchers , a Ghanaian-based election observer group has expressed worry about the recent outcome of a survey conducted by the Global InfoAnalytics which predicts dip in percentage for the ruling New Patriotic Party in the Ashanti Region.
The group is particularly concerned about the period of the survey, coming few weeks after the nomination of one of the prominent Members of Parliament and party guru in the region, Hon. Dr. Mathew Opoku Prempeh, as the running mate for the party.
Elections Watchers is therefore cautioning the ruling party, particularly the regional party leadership to put their axes in order if they have any chance of winning the December polls.
Whilst expressing doubts about the impact of the running mate, the group believes the only solution is for the Regional Chairman, Chairman Wontumi to gird his loins and make his impact felt in the region.
They also warned that the ruling party must not treat the result lightly but instead give it all the necessary attention it deserves in order to enhance their electoral fortunes.
The latest survey by pollsters, Global InfoAnalytics paints a groomy picture for the ruling party in the Ashanti Region, projecting a figure below its targeted percentage of 85% in the December polls.
According to the group, the results of the survey, which predicts 65% for the NPP, 8% less than the previous outcome, is not quite surprising considering that several factors have gone against the party since the selection of its running mate.
The group argues that prior to the selection of the party’s running mate, all individuals, groups and associations were hired to engage in artificial media promotion for the eventual nominee, Dr. Napo.
According to them, these groups and individuals, since the announcement was made, have gone into hibernation.
They averred that not only has the selection of Dr. Napo reduced the enthusiasm of many grassroots members , it has further alienated ‘the middle neutrals’ who had some soft spots for the NPP but leaned towards independent candidates such as Mr. Alan Kyerematen and Nana Kwame Bediako aka Cheddar.
The group is of the view that the selection of Dr. Napo has done little to revive the base of the party and has instead plunged the party into further uncertainty.
“One would have expected that the NPP would improve its fortune from 73% to say 78 ,79 following the nomination of Dr. Napo but the converse has been the case; the party has rather lost grounds, this should be a source of worry to all well-meaning party members ‘ the group observed.
WONTUMI’S INFLUENCE
The group further observed with worry that the Ashanti Regional Chairman, Mr. Bernard Antwi Boasiako aka Chairman Wontumi, has adopted an indifferent approach to the party’s activities in recent times, warning that it could further worsen the fortunes of the party.
According to them, unless Chairman Wontumi begins to manifest himself and engage in serious campaign like he did in 2016, the NPP could suffer even worst consequences in the December 7 elections.
sources : www.kumasimail.com
