In a significant political development, approximately 120 fishermen from Ekumfi Narkwa, acclaimed as staunch members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), according to the NDC 2024 Running Mate Campaign Team have defected to the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
Eric Adjei, the Deputy Spokesperson of Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, Running Mate to former President John Dramani Mahama, in a statement, indicated that the fishermen cited their urgent need for an improved livelihood as the driving force behind their decision.
According to him, the group expressed grave concerns over the imminent collapse of their fishing businesses due to the soaring costs of pre-mix fuel and outboard motors, among other essential fishing equipment.
This announcement, he noted was made during a community durbar held on Thursday in an engagement with Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, Running Mate of the NDC Flagbearer former President John Dramani Mahama.
“The government is not concerned about our welfare. We can no longer trust our lives and fishing occupation into the hands of the NPP,” Eric Adjei, quoted Opanyin Owu Bonsu, leader of the defectors.
Eric Adjei further stated that according to the group the escalating cost of pre-mix fuel is a critical issue, adding that despite repeated appeals to the government to address the exorbitant prices, the costs have continued to rise.
“In 2016, we used to purchase one yellow gallon (Kufuor gallon) of pre-mix fuel at GHC 520. However, the price has now skyrocketed to an unbearable level of between GHC 2,500 and GHC 2,800 per gallon. Additionally, the cost of outboard motors has become prohibitive, reaching around GHC 7,000. We feel deceived, and we are from today no longer with the NPP”.
Eric Adjei Deputy Spokesperson, Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang Running Mate to John Mahama
Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang’s Assurances
Stating the remarks of Professor Jane Naana Opoku Agyemang during her interaction with the group at the durbar, Eric Adjei indicated that the National Democratic Congress running mate for the 2024 general elections reassured the fishermen, fishmongers, and traders in Ekumfi and all coastal areas of effective policies under the next NDC administration.
Eric Adjei indicated that Professor Opoku-Agyemang emphasized that the proposed policies that the opposition National Democratic Congress seeks to implement when elected are aimed at promoting the welfare of fishermen, fishmongers, and traders across the country, particularly fishing communities
Again, the Deputy Spokesperson of Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, Running Mate to former President John Dramani Mahama also emphasized that the NDC’s policies are meticulously designed with the development and welfare of the citizenry in mind.
He referenced Professor Opoku Agyemang’s exact statement “Development is our goal”, assuring the people of Ekumfi and surrounding areas of comprehensive development when the National Democratic Congress returns to power.
According to him, Professor Opoku Agyemang in a fervent call to action, urged the electorates to remain vigilant and not be swayed by the ruling NPP, advising them to consider their livelihoods and make informed decisions in the December 7 polls.
Additionally, Eric Adjei pointed out that the Regent for Ekumfi Narkwa Traditional Area, Morgan Darko, representing the chief of the area pledged support for the NDC, expressing hope that the party would return to power to complete projects it initiated in the area.
Prof. Opoku-Agyemang is currently on a campaign tour in the Central Region as part of her efforts to garner support for the NDC ahead of the December 7 polls.
On Wednesday, 31st July, she and the NDC Flagbearer, former President John Dramani Mahama, visited the Central Regional House of Chiefs to seek blessings, support, and prayers from the traditional leaders in the region ahead of the December 7 polls.
