The Odododiodio constituency is abuzz with political activity as the National Democratic Congress (NDC) seeks to choose a new parliamentary candidate, following the decision of the incumbent Member of Parliament (MP), Edwin Nii Lantey Vanderpuye, not to contest in the upcoming elections, according to a report by citinewsroom.com. This development has sparked interest among political circles and constituents alike.
As of now, three aspiring candidates have formally submitted their nominations, ready to compete for the parliamentary ticket. The election to determine the candidate who will represent the party in the Odododiodio constituency is slated to take place on October 31, 2023.
In light of these developments, Nii Adjebu Lamptey, Chairman of the NDC Elections Committee in the Odododiodio Constituency, has offered guidance to party sympathizers and campaigners in the area. He emphasized the importance of conducting their campaign activities with caution and responsibility.
Speaking to Citi News at the NDC constituency office, Mr. Lamptey stressed the need to maintain a peaceful and decorous atmosphere during the party’s internal competition. He expressed satisfaction with the smooth progression of the nomination process and voiced optimism for a continued atmosphere of tranquility throughout the selection process.
The next stage in this electoral process is the vetting of candidates, which is scheduled to take place on Friday at the regional party office. Following the vetting, party members and constituents will eagerly anticipate the elections on the originally planned date of October 31.
Edwin Nii Lantey Vanderpuye, a prominent figure who has served as the MP for the Odododiodio constituency since 2013, made a notable entry into politics when he was first elected as MP in the 2012 elections. In that historic contest, he faced off against Victor Okaikoi of the New Patriotic Party.
Vanderpuye had exuded confidence in his victory, making a memorable statement in November 2012 by pledging to concede the seat to Okaikoi if he secured less than 65% of the vote. Ultimately, Vanderpuye emerged victorious, albeit by a slightly smaller margin than his bold proclamation, with 45,967 votes (63%) compared to Okaikoi’s 26,269 votes (36%). Emmanuel Odoi of the Convention People’s Party received 745 votes (1%).
In the subsequent December 2016 elections, Vanderpuye retained his position as the MP for the Odododiodio Constituency, garnering 36,606 votes, equivalent to 57.04% of the total, against his closest competitor from the New Patriotic Party, who received 26,671 votes, representing 41.56%.
