Former Food and Agriculture Minister, Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto, will join NPP flagbearer Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia on his Ashanti Region campaign tour, marking a key show of party unity as the 2024 election nears.
Dr. Afriyie Akoto, an agricultural economist and son of Baffour Osei Akoto, a revered founding figure of the UP tradition, is anticipated to add strategic impact to the campaign in Ashanti, the NPP’s stronghold.
Insider sources suggest that his involvement will bolster the campaign’s momentum in the region, emphasizing the NPP’s determination to “break the 8” and achieve a third consecutive term in office.
The tour is set to begin on Monday, November 4, 2024, and will span two weeks, during which Dr. Bawumia’s campaign will emphasize a forward-looking vision for Ghana. This vision includes promoting a digital economy, developing a strong credit system for economic growth and job creation, implementing a business-friendly tax regime, ensuring environmental sustainability, and enhancing the “gold-for-oil” policy to stabilize the cedi.
Dr. Afriyie Akoto, recognized as the “farmers’ friend,” will highlight the significant agricultural support offered by the Akufo-Addo government, focusing on initiatives targeting Ghana’s 3.6 million farmers. His message will emphasize the government’s agricultural policies and investments made over the past eight years, urging the farming community to vote for continuity in the upcoming elections.
Dr. Afriyie Akoto’s presence alongside Dr. Bawumia also symbolizes the NPP’s unity. Despite competing for the party’s presidential nomination, all nine primary contestants, including Dr. Akoto, are now actively supporting the party’s flagbearer. This united front serves as a strong statement in the NPP’s campaign strategy as they strive for victory in 2024.
The Ashanti tour represents a critical phase in the NPP’s electoral efforts, mobilizing party members and supporters in one of the most influential regions ahead of the general elections.