Just days before the December 7 presidential and parliamentary elections, the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) made a resounding impact on the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) in its stronghold, the Ashanti Region.
Over the weekend, the party and its leader, John Dramani Mahama, hosted a massive rally on Sunday, December 1, in what could be described as a historic gathering in the region, known as ‘Enti Asantiman Aseda Ni’.
The event, held at the Jubilee Park in the Asawase constituency, attracted a significant turnout of party supporters, enthusiasts, prominent figures, and regional executives.
During his regional campaign’s final leg, Mr. Mahama expressed astonishment at the unprecedented crowd and challenged his main rival, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, to revisit the region.
The NPP seemed to have a minimal presence in the region, as the NDC, aiming to secure 30% of the total votes, made a remarkable impact.
Former President Mahama mentioned that there were indications that Vice President Bawumia intends to return to the region after spending over two weeks there, concluding his regional tour.
Mr. Mahama alleged that the overwhelming numbers greeting Dr. Bawumia may have unsettled him, prompting his plan to counter the NDC’s influence upon his return.
He emphasized that despite the NPP’s disappointing track record in the region, there is little that can change the voters’ minds.
In a direct challenge, Mr. Mahama provocatively urged Dr. Bawumia to return with his wife, Samira, children, and even his bed, suggesting that their presence would not alter the imminent victory for the NDC.
He also criticized his successor, President Akufo-Addo, for inaugurating incomplete projects, notably referencing the ongoing works at the Prempeh I Airport in Kumasi.
Mr. Mahama accused the government of deceiving the public, citing a recent false report claiming that Ethiopian Airlines planned direct flights from Kumasi to London, clarifying that it was actually an individual trying to charter a plane.
Proceeding the sizable rally, the Asawase constituency organized a significant victory walk before converging at the Jubilee Park.
Meanwhile, as Mr. Mahama made waves in the Ashanti Region, the NDC conducted health walks in various constituencies such as Nungua, Odododiodioo, Ayawaso East, and Teshie, garnering substantial support.
Videos shared on social media depicted enthusiastic youth marching in support of Mr. Mahama’s campaign in these communities.
Attempts by the NPP in Teshie to organize a walk later in the day were overshadowed by the massive turnout for the NDC, resulting in the NPP supporters conceding the streets to their counterparts.
In another video circulating on social media, a substantial NDC crowd encountered NPP supporters whose numbers paled in comparison. Eventually, the NPP supporters made way for the NDC supporters, watching from the sidelines as the latter sang and danced to vibrant party and campaign tunes.
Both the NDC and NPP are set to hold their final rallies in Accra on Thursday. The NDC disclosed that their gathering will be at Zurak Park in Madina, while the NPP’s location remains undisclosed.