Minority Leader and Effutu Member of Parliament Alexander Afenyo-Markin has called on candidates and delegates in the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) regional executive elections to preserve the calm atmosphere surrounding the process.
Speaking at Mankessim, where the Central Regional executive elections are being held, Mr Afenyo-Markin said the contest should be treated as an internal party exercise rather than a source of division. He also welcomed the absence of violence and said candidates had been allowed to campaign while delegates exercised their right to select their preferred representatives.
“What I can say is that so far so good. A very peaceful atmosphere. Candidates are campaigning. It’s a family affair. No violence. Mutual respect. That is the beauty of it,” he said.
His comments came as the NPP continued its regional-level elections, with aspirants competing for executive positions and delegates taking part in the selection process. Mr Afenyo-Markin said the proceedings had so far reflected the principles of mutual respect and peaceful participation.
The Effutu MP urged everyone involved to maintain restraint and tolerance until the elections had been completed. He said aspirants and delegates should continue to treat one another with respect, regardless of the eventual results or the candidates they supported.
Mr Afenyo-Markin also said the outcome of the elections should represent both the work undertaken by the various aspirants during the campaign and the decisions made by delegates at the polls.
The Minority Leader stressed that the conduct of the elections would have significance beyond the immediate selection of regional executives. In his view, preserving peace and unity throughout the process would help strengthen the NPP as it prepares for future electoral contests.
He therefore appealed to all participants to avoid actions that could undermine the peaceful nature of the exercise. Instead, he encouraged them to uphold the calm approach seen so far and to allow delegates to make their choices freely.
The Central Regional elections at Mankessim are part of the NPP’s wider regional executive elections. Mr Afenyo-Markin’s message was focused on ensuring that the party’s internal competition remained orderly, respectful and free from violence.
He said the peaceful conduct of the exercise was a positive reflection of the way the party’s members and delegates were engaging with the electoral process. For the elections to fulfil their purpose, he maintained that the atmosphere of mutual respect should continue through to the conclusion of the regional contests.
