The 2024 general elections marked a pivotal moment in Ghana’s political history. The ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), determined to “break the 8,” faced a resounding defeat. Former President John Dramani Mahama returned to power, winning the presidential election, while the National Democratic Congress (NDC) secured a commanding majority in Parliament. The Odododiodio Constituency mirrored this national trend.
Historically, the NDC has maintained dominance in Odododiodio, winning the parliamentary seat in every democratic election since 1992—except in 2000, when a young Reginald Niibi Ayi Bonte contested and won for the NPP. In the 2016 and 2020 elections, the NPP made significant inroads, reducing the margin of defeat from 19,688 in 2016 to 6,559 in 2020. However, these gains were not sustained. In 2024, the NPP lost the parliamentary race by 13,596 votes and the presidential race by 17,476 votes in the constituency.
Performance of NPP Parliamentary Candidates (by votes obtained):
1. Bannerman (2020) – 34,887
2. Niibi (2004) – 31,546
3. Niibi (2000) – 28,270
4. Odoi Sykes (1996) – 27,097
5. Bannerman (2016) – 26,671
6. Okaikoi (2012) – 26,269
7. Adjei Sowah (2008) – 25,495
8. Mannaf Sowah (2024) – 24,877
9. Asafoatse Mankattah (By-election 2005) – 18,461
Performance of NPP Presidential Candidates (by votes obtained):
1. Nana Addo (2020) – 33,896
2. Kufuor (2004) – 32,046
3. Kufuor (2000) – 27,132
4. Akufo-Addo (2012) – 27,047
5. Akufo-Addo (2016) – 26,585
6. Kufuor (1996) – 26,181
7. Akufo-Addo (2008 run-off) – 25,989
8. Akufo-Addo (2008) – 25,846
9. Bawumia (2024) – 22,624
Performance of NDC Parliamentary Candidates (by votes obtained):
1. Van Pee (2012) – 45,957
2. Van Pee (2020) – 41,446
3. Ashie Kotey (2024) – 38,474
4. Van Pee (2016) – 36,606
5. Samuel Mankattah (2004) – 35,634
6. Tackie Kommey (2008) – 34,812
7. Okaidja Adamafio (1996) – 29,142
8. Okaidja Adamafio (2000) – 24,181
Performance of NDC Presidential Candidates (by votes obtained):
1. Mahama (2012) – 45,555
2. Mahama (2020) – 42,636
3. Mahama (2024) – 40,100
4. Atta Mills (2008 run-off) – 37,414
5. Mahama (2016) – 37,217
6. Atta Mills (2004) – 35,489
7. Atta Mills (2008) – 35,442
8. J.J. Rawlings (1996) – 31,142
9. Atta Mills (2000) – 24,944
These figures underscore the NPP’s waning influence in Odododiodio. The constituency appears to be reverting to its traditional support base, solidifying its status as an NDC stronghold.
A critical reflection on the NPP’s electoral performance in the constituency is necessary. While some may dismiss the outcome as inconsequential or misinterpret it as internal sabotage, it is imperative to acknowledge that deeper, structural issues contributed to the loss.
One major factor was the government’s inability to complete key infrastructure projects, such as the Sempe School, Salaga Market, and the Agenda 111 Hospital. The NDC capitalized on these unfulfilled promises to challenge the NPP’s credibility. The underwhelming commissioning and lack of operationalization of the James Town Harbour project further alienated constituents—particularly the unemployed youth and loyal party members who had high expectations of economic benefit.
Another persistent issue within the constituency is internal division among party members. Intra-party contests often devolve into personal attacks rather than constructive discourse on candidate strengths. This breeds long-standing animosities, with winning factions assuming unwarranted superiority while the losing side becomes marginalized. Such a fractured environment hampers the development of a unified and vibrant campaign machinery.
This divisive behavior must be decisively addressed as the party prepares for the 2028 elections. The NPP in Odododiodio must prioritize genuine grassroots engagement, enhance internal communication, and foster unity. Only through sustained dialogue, mutual respect, and organizational coherence can the party rebuild its presence in the constituency.
As we await the findings and recommendations of the 2024 Review Committee, let us reflect critically and constructively. It is not enough to count votes—we must count lessons.
Let us chart a new path—strategic, inclusive, and visionary—for Odododiodio.