Amenfi West Champions Eric Afful for Western Regional Minister, Citing Decades of Loyalty to NDC

 

The selection process for the remaining regional ministers under President John Dramani Mahama has become a focal point of political discourse, particularly in the Western Region, where the potential appointment of Eric Afful is sparking significant debate. While some voices question his suitability for the role, citing concerns about his public profile and leadership influence, many constituents from the Amenfi West area are mounting a strong campaign to advocate for his appointment as Western Regional Minister. These constituents, including assembly members and members of the diaspora, highlight Eric Afful’s 30 years of dedicated service to the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the need for fair representation in regional leadership. Their advocacy underscores the complex interplay between political loyalty, regional representation, and the need for effective leadership in the selection process.

The Delay and Underlying Concerns:

President Mahama has already named regional ministers for ten regions (Greater Accra, Eastern, Ashanti, Volta, Northern, Oti, North East, Upper East, Ahafo and Savannah) , leaving six outstanding regions (Bono, Central, western, Bono East, Upper West and Western North).This delay has further heightened speculation and discussion about the remaining appointments and raised concerns about the criteria used in the selection process. While some speculate on various factors, questions have arisen about Eric Afful’s suitability for the role. .

Amenfi West’s Advocacy and Rationale:

In a strong display of support, constituents from Amenfi West are advocating for Eric Afful, emphasizing their loyalty and dedication to the NDC. Their argument rests on several key points:

30 Years of Loyalty: They emphasize their unwavering loyalty to the NDC since the inception of the Fourth Republic, describing Amenfi constituencies as strongholds of the party.They are pushing for him because of their unwavering support and loyalty to the NDC.

Parliamentary Experience: They highlight Eric Afful’s experience as a three and a half-term Member of Parliament for Amenfi West, arguing that his dedication qualifies him for regional leadership.

Underrepresentation of Amenfi: They point out that the current regional leadership is dominated by representatives from the Nzema and Ahanta constituencies, leaving the Amenfi constituencies underrepresented.

Fair Representation: They advocate that the Western Region, with its 17 constituencies, should have fair representation from all areas in leadership positions.

Ishmael Tanoh’s Recommendation:

Ishmael Tanoh, the Breman Assembly Member, has written an open letter to President Mahama, making a case for Eric Afful’s appointment. He emphasizes that the Amenfi constituencies have been solid NDC strongholds for the past 30 years and that Eric Afful has served diligently as a Member of Parliament. Tanoh argues that Afful’s dedication, experience, and his understanding of local issues make him the ideal candidate to lead the Western Region and that his appointment would address the existing imbalance.

Philip Toku’s Appeal:

Philip Toku, a PhD student at Ohio University and a native of Amenfi West, also wrote to the President, reinforcing the claims of Amenfi’s loyalty to the NDC. He emphasizes that the community’s loyalty stems from a shared vision and hope for development under the president’s leadership. This additional voice adds to the chorus of support for Eric Afful, highlighting the deep connections between the community and their hope to have representation in the political arena.