Akyem Oda: Under-pressure NPP PC Aspirant Resists Intimidation To Withdraw

Dennis Obeng Agyei, a Parliamentary Candidate hopeful of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) in Akyem Oda, remains undeterred despite facing intimidation tactics from some members of the party’s regional leadership, aimed at persuading him to withdraw from the upcoming parliamentary primaries.

The former Assembly Member is resolute in his determination to contest in the primaries and win the election.

This situation arises as the vetting results necessary for his campaign and participation in the January 27 election have been withheld by the Eastern Regional vetting Committee, chaired by Dr. Lord Commey, Director of Operations at the Office of the President, and assisted by party officials including Ms Mimi Duah and Mr. Jeff Konadu, Eastern Regional Chairman.

The committee claims that several petitions from Akyem Oda constituency members have been filed challenging the former constituency executive’s eligibility to contest.

Accusations against Mr. Agyei include having a “slippery tongue,” insulting the incumbent MP, Akwasi Acquah, and allegedly inciting women at the Akyem Oda central market against the MP.

Response

However, Mr. Agyei asserts that he was denied access to the full content of the petition and information about the individuals behind it.

Despite this, the regional chairman urged him to step down, citing the petition as grounds for potential suspension and referral to the Constituency Disciplinary Committee.

In response, Mr Agyei has submitted a detailed denial of all accusations to the NPP National Appeals Committee.

He refuted claims of verbally assaulting the MP and inciting anyone against him, highlighting a past public apology for a minor altercation with the MP two years ago and expressing commitment to unity within the constituency.

Mr. Agyei also raised concerns about the vetting process, citing a violation of Clause 5(2) of Article 4 of the NPP constitution, which pertains to natural justice.

He emphasized that he was not provided a copy of the petition, nor allowed to know his accusers or cross-examine them.

In his petition to the Appeals Committee, Mr. Agyei called for the setting aside of any decision that could lead to his disqualification, expressing hope for a fair and unbiased resolution.

 

 

Source: Daily statesman