The Managing Director of the State Transport Company (STC) Nana Akomea, has addressed concerns following the health challenges of the Member of Parliament for Nkawkaw Constituency Hon. Joseph Frimpong.
Nana Akomea highlighted the complexities of managing health-related issues concerning elected parliamentary candidates. His remarks focused on how the party deals with such challenges, particularly when they compromise the candidate’s ability to represent the party effectively. Addressing the internal dynamics of the NPP, Nana Akomea emphasized that, difficult issues affecting a candidate’s capability to represent the party are handled internally.
‘If there are difficult issues that can’t compromise his ability to represent the party… the party would talk about it and involve all the stakeholders concerned, particularly the person directly involved.”
Nana Akomea the Managing Director of the State Transport Company (STC)
The NPP’s approach is rooted in ensuring the candidate’s continued ability to serve both the party and the constituency, particularly when health challenges become apparent. Nana Akomea acknowledged that, it is not secret when health issues arise, and the party must consider how these challenges might impact the candidate’s performance and, ultimately, the party’s chances of retaining the seat.
Health Concerns and Party Consensus
Nana Akomea further elaborated on the process, indicating that if a candidate has significant health challenges that could affect their ability to represent the party and the constituents in parliament, the matter would be discussed with the candidate.
” … to represent the party and win the seat or retain the seat and also represent his people in parliament, it’s an issue that the party would discuss with him.”
Nana Akomea the Managing Director of the State Transport Company (STC)
The party’s decision-making process hinges on these discussions.
“If he’s able to convince the party, he would continue. He can continue, why not, he’s the person who won the primaries.’’
Nana Akomea the Managing Director of the State Transport Company (STC)
However, if it becomes evident that the candidate cannot continue due to the severity of their health challenges, the party and the candidate would work together to reach an agreement.
“If in the discussions, it is clear that he cannot continue and that his health challenges are a bit too much, I’m sure the candidate and the party would come to an agreement that would satisfy the greater good of the party.”
Nana Akomea the Managing Director of the State Transport Company (STC)
The NPP has the strength to find replacements quickly, given its size and resources. Nana Akomea pointed out that in a big party like the NPP, there are always people available to step in for others.
Replacement of Ministerial Position
Nana Akomea highlighted the contributions of Mr. David Asante, the head of Ghana Publishing, whom he described as a vibrant young man with a lot of drive. Mr. Asante is considered a potential replacement candidate if the incumbent cannot continue due to health reasons. Nana Akomea praised Asante’s work and emphasized his potential as a worthy replacement.
“David Asante is doing fantastic work. He’s a vibrant young man with a lot of drive… it will be a worthy replacement.”
Nana Akomea the Managing Director of the State Transport Company (STC)
Despite the possibility of a change in candidates, Akomea acknowledged that organizing primaries to select a replacement could be challenging.
“Even if the agreement is that the incumbent has to step aside because of his health issues, it will be a second difficult cause. You have to arrange your primaries.”
Nana Akomea the Managing Director of the State Transport Company (STC)
Moreover, Naana Akomea emphasized that, negotiation and consensus-building are integral to the NPP’s democratic processes.
“… So, I’m sure all, the parties, the incumbent, the party, the potential replacements, all of that will come to some consensus.”
Nana Akomea the Managing Director of the State Transport Company (STC)
In situations where time is of the essence, further discussions with all interested parties may lead to a conclusion that forgoing primaries might be advisable. However, Nana Akomea remained confident that the NPP’s strength and history of winning the seat since 1996 would aid in reaching a consensus that benefits the party.
Comparisons to International Politics
Drawing parallels to international politics, Akomea referenced U.S. President Joe Biden, who faced health challenges during his presidency. Nana Akomea pointed out that, extensive discussions led to a consensus that Biden should not present himself as a candidate for future presidential elections.
“Even at that level, you can have consensus building,” Nana Akomea remarked, emphasizing that such processes are not unique to the NPP or Ghanaian politics.
As the elections approach, Nana Akomea’s insights provide a glimpse into how the NPP is navigating the complexities of candidate selection, particularly in light of health-related challenges. Meanwhile, both major political parties in Ghana are making significant changes, as evidenced by the NDC’s recent Fit Central parliamentary primary and the NPP’s ongoing legal challenges in the Walewle constituency.
Nana Akomea underscored the importance of internal discussions, consensus building, and strategic decision-making as the NPP prepares for the upcoming elections. The party’s ability to adapt and make necessary changes will be crucial in ensuring its continued success at the polls.
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