The Minister of State in charge of Finance at the Presidency and MP for Atiwa East in the Eastern Region of Ghana, Abena Osei Asare, has urged members and sympathizers of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to avoid “skirt and blouse” voting in the upcoming 2024 general elections. This term refers to the practice of voting for a parliamentary candidate from one party and a presidential candidate from another, which she warns contributed to the hung parliament following the 2020 elections.
Osei Asare’s warning came during the inauguration of the Atiwa East Constituency campaign team for the 2024 elections, held at Anyinam. The event marks the start of an energetic push to secure another term for the NPP, famously referred to as “breaking the 8,” symbolizing the party’s aim to remain in power beyond the usual two-term limit.
The inauguration brought together party executives, faithful supporters, the Council of Elders, patrons, officials, and former parliamentary aspirants. Traditional and religious leaders also graced the occasion, alongside 30 members of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) who defected to the NPP. Clad in party paraphernalia, Osei Asare led supporters through the streets of Anyinam in a celebratory march to the inaugural venue, with singing and dancing.
Constituency Chairman Albert Nuama, in his address, urged party members to work diligently to achieve a decisive victory. He confidently predicted that the NPP would secure 80% of the votes in the upcoming elections. Nuama also called on party members to overcome any lingering divisions from recent primaries and unite for the common goal of electoral success.
Osei Asare emphasized that “breaking the 8” is a formidable task that requires more than just a slogan—it demands hard work and unity. She expressed optimism about the party’s chances if they remain cohesive, noting that their performance in various sectors alone would not guarantee victory. She stressed the importance of not repeating the “skirt and blouse” voting pattern that led to a hung parliament in 2020.
Regional Secretary Tony Osei-Adjei highlighted the party’s united front, which he believes will secure their victory in the December 7th polls. Ernest Adade Wiredu, a recent primary candidate, pledged his full support for Osei Asare and urged others to rally behind her for a united effort in the upcoming elections.
This campaign launch signals a determined and united front as the NPP gears up for the 2024 elections, aiming to maintain their grip on power with a cohesive strategy and strong grassroots support.
