The New Patriotic Party (NPP) incumbent Member of Parliament for Walewale Constituency Lariba Zuweira Abudu, has announced her withdrawal from the 2024 Parliamentary Primaries. Meanwhile, she explained her decision to withdraw from the party’s primaries in an unexpected move.

This decision emerged as a result of the re-run of the primaries in the Walewale Constituency which ended inconclusively due to an unfortunate incident of ballot snatching confusing the polls that prevented the electoral commission from declaring the results.

The parliamentary aspirant clarified her reasons for stepping aside in an interview, dispelling any notions that she was coerced into taking this step. Lariba Zuweira Abudu who has represented the constituency before, made it clear that her choice was driven by personal reflection and the broader interest of the party and her constituents. Lariba Zuweira Abudu’s decision to withdraw was influenced by her desire to avoid causing further turmoil within the party and her constituency.

“… You know, we need to embrace Peace. Seven months down the lane, we have been traumatized [by] the consequences. So, it’s better at least. We give it a chance.”
Lariba Zuweira Abudu Member of Parliament for Walewale Constituency

Lariba Zuweira Abudu concern for the party’s internal harmony and the well-being of the constituency was central to her decision. She emphasized the ongoing challenges the constituency has faced, explaining that she wanted to pave the way for a smoother transition. Lariba Zuweira Abudu believes that by stepping aside, she is offering her constituents the chance to move forward.

Lariba Zuweira Abudu consistently denied being forced to withdraw from the race, making it clear that this was her own independent decision. she asserted; “Nobody forced me, I should have been forced a long time.”

Lariba Zuweira Abudu explained that, after significant thought and careful consideration, she issued the statement announcing her withdrawal.

“I am happy [with the statement I released] I’ve reflected, I thought over it, and that’s why I came out with this statement” she said, reinforcing her point that her decision was the result of deep contemplation rather than party interference.

Lariba Zuweira Abudu further shed light on some of the frustrations she experienced within the party’s internal processes, particularly concerning the elections.

“You realize what happened yesterday. It was inconclusive. They didn’t declare. They didn’t even count, you know?” she remarked, hinting at some discontent over how things were handled in the run-up to her decision.

Maturity and Responsibility in Making the Decision

Reflecting on the decision to step aside, Lariba Zuweira Abudu expressed her sense of responsibility in making the move. She explained that after serving her constituency, it was time to step aside and let someone else have the opportunity, especially given the internal tensions within the party.

“I had the opportunity to represent them and if somebody is coming or I’m going again and there are issues, at least, I’m very mature. I should know where when and why I’m doing this. So, I’ve decided that I won’t go again.”
Lariba Zuweira Abudu Member of Parliament for Walewale Constituency

Responding to suggestions that her decision to step down might have been influenced by her relationship with Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, Lariba Zuweira Abudu was quick to clarify that there were no issues between them. Hon. Lariba Abudu expressed surprise that people would link her decision to personal discord with the Vice President, emphasizing that the decision was hers alone.

“Oh? I don’t think so, don’t say that. Stepping down means you don’t have a good relationship with somebody?”
Lariba Zuweira Abudu Member of Parliament for Walewale Constituency

Moreover, Lariba Zuweira Abudu highlighted that the Vice President had not been involved in influencing her withdrawal. “The vice president never called me’’ she said, dispelling any speculation thatDr. Bawumia had pressured her into stepping aside. There has been speculation that Lariba Zuweira Abudu’s decision might lead her to contest as an independent candidate, or that her relationship with the party might deteriorate.

Lariba Zuweira Abudu stressed her commitment to the party, indirectly addressing these rumors. Lariba Zuweira Abudu’s withdrawal appears to be in line with her values of promoting peace and unity within the party, rather than a step toward leaving the NPP or contesting independently. Lariba Zuweira Abudu’s decision to withdraw from the NPP primaries in the Walewale constituency appears to be a thoughtful and selfless move, rooted in her concern for the party’s and her constituents’ welfare.

While some might speculate that she was forced into this decision, Lariba Zuweira Abudu has made it clear that her choice was entirely her own, motivated by personal reflection and a desire for peace. Her statement stands as a testament to her autonomy in making this significant political decision.