Only 12 out of the 128 aspirants are women contesting the parliamentary primaries of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Ashanti region.

This represents barely 9% of total women participation in the political exercise.

Minister of Communication, Ursula Owusu along with Minister of Foreign Affairs, Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey stormed the Oforikrom Constituency to support Claudia Lumor, in their quest to strengthen female leadership in parliament.

The Oforikrom NPP parliamentary primary is fiercely being contested by five contenders, including one female.

Female participation is seemingly very low in the NPP’s internal contest, with a percentage of less than ten in the Ashanti region.

The incumbent MP for Ablekuma West and Minister of Communication, Ursula Owusu is taken aback by the low involvement of women.

She admonishes party heads and delegates to prioritise female aspirants in Saturday’s election.

”it is critical that we improve the representation of women in parliament. So when a potential strong contender is identified, she should be given maximum support. I see in Claudia a potential strong female leader, which is why I have left my constituency to come solicit for votes for her,” she said. 

Ursula visited the Oforikrom constituency to support Claudia Lumor, the only female in the constituency primary.

Claudia is hopeful of carrying the day in Saturday’s polls.

”Oforikrom delegates have seen what I have done. The achievement I have fought for the constituency. And I pray that it reflect in their votes this Saturday,” she said. 

Notable NPP female party leaders were spotted on the campaign platform, encouraging delegates to vote for Claudia Lumor.

The list included the Foreign Affairs Minister, Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey.

“Claudia is not a government appointee, yet has achieved so much for the Oforikrom.  This is a candidate who will never disappoint,” she said.