A growing wave of discontent is brewing in the Amenfi West Municipality, with local chiefs openly expressing their dissatisfaction with the current state of affairs and their desire for a change in leadership.
The recent launch of the Amenfi West DRIP program in Mumuni provided a platform for these sentiments to be voiced. Chiefs, long-standing pillars of the community, spoke out against the incumbent MP, who they claim has been operating with “excuses” for over nine years.
The Chief of Nkwanta kese which runs from Prestea Nkwanta, Torongpang, Gravelyard, Mumuni, Bisaaso number 1 and 2 to No good, in particular, expressed his disappointment, stating that despite years of voting for the incumbent Amenfi West MP, their communities have witnessed minimal development. He highlighted the lack of tangible progress, questioning the effectiveness of the MP’s tenure.
Another chief, during a community engagement in Ohiamatuo, went a step further, revealing his intention to reassess his voting pattern. He indicated that he would consider voting for Hon. Ignatius Kwasi Afrifa, the NPP candidate, who he views as a “result-oriented” leader. This move marks a significant shift, as the chief acknowledges the lack of progress under the current leadership and is willing to break with traditional party loyalty.
The chiefs have also decided to reject the “last minute envelope” – a common practice of offering small sums of money to sway votes – further emphasizing the growing disillusionment with the incumbent MP. He recounts a specific instance where the community’s request for support to settle teachers in Tanaa Community was ignored. He contrasts this with the positive contributions of the former MCE, Hon. George Agyiri, who provided a school structure for Tanaa Community before leaving office.
The pronouncements of these chiefs represent a powerful voice for change in Amenfi West. They are challenging the status quo and demanding accountability from their elected officials. Their words echo a growing sentiment within the community, highlighting the need for a leader who prioritizes development, addresses community concerns, and delivers tangible results. The upcoming elections will be a critical test for the current MP, as he faces the prospect of a significant shift in voter sentiment driven by the chiefs’ call for a new era of leadership in Amenfi West.