The National Organiser of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Henry Nana Boakye, has said that he would not be surprised if the party’s candidate, Baba Ali, wins the Ayawaso East by-election despite the constituency’s history.

Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen show on March 3, Nana Boakye noted that the NPP has never won in Ayawaso East seat but expressed optimism about the party’s chances this time.5

He observed that voter turnout has been low across several polling stations he visited, describing the exercise so far as peaceful, with police officers actively maintaining order.

The people of the constituency are at the polls to elect an MP following the death of their representative early this year.

“There is often low turnout in by-elections, and it appears that this election has recorded very low participation. I visited several polling stations and observed the same pattern of low turnout. However, the election has been peaceful so far, with the police actively doing their job. We hope that turnout might increase when workers return home from work,” he said.

According to Nana B, some supporters of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) may vote for Baba Ali because he is a native of the area and widely regarded as humble and approachable.

While acknowledging that the NDC remains strong in the constituency, Nana Boakye said sentiments on the ground suggest the NPP candidate could pull off a surprise victory.

“Although we haven’t previously won in Ayawaso East, I wouldn’t be surprised if some NDC members vote for our candidate, Baba Ali, regardless of his party affiliation, since he is a native of the community.

“Residents have expressed that Baba Jamal is not a local, and some are even campaigning against him. The NDC is strong in this constituency, but our candidate is well-liked by the people and known for being humble. I wouldn’t be surprised if he wins,” he added.