Dambai, Oti Region - The New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Oti Region has commenced the vetting process for 21 parliamentary candidates ahead of the upcoming elections. These candidates, representing various constituencies within the region, have submitted their nomination forms and are now undergoing scrutiny by the party's vetting committee.
According to Ghana News Agency, the vetting, which began on Tuesday at the Busatsu Hotel in Dambai, includes three aspirants from the Guan District, three from the Akan Constituency, and one from the Nkwanta South Municipality. Notably, Mr Joshua Gmayeenam Makubu, the Regional Minister who is currently in Accra on a national assignment with the Regional House of Chiefs, is scheduled to be vetted on Thursday, separate from the ongoing process.
Mr Evans Yaw Dapaah, the Regional Chairman of the NPP, addressed the aspirants before the commencement of the vetting. He emphasized the party's commitment to allowing grassroots members to choose their representatives. Dapaah assured the candidates that the leadership does not intend to disqualify anyone during the vetting.
He also urged the candidates to accept the outcomes of the primaries and work towards unity in preparation for the 2024 general elections. Meanwhile, Mr Jonathan Akpabeh Manu, the Regional Secretary of the NPP, called on constituency executives in the region to refrain from openly supporting or campaigning for any parliamentary candidate. He stressed that fair play in the selection process must be upheld to ensure a level playing field.
Manu also advised party members to maintain respect for community leaders, including chiefs, imams, clergy, and grassroots supporters. He believes this approach will enhance the party's appeal in the upcoming general polls.
The vetting process has attracted considerable attention, with large crowds of party followers seen supporting their preferred candidates.