Political analyst Alex Emmanuel Nti has described the Kapndai parliamentary seat as a highly contestable constituency, noting that its political history prevents it from being considered a “safe seat” for either the National Democratic Congress (NDC) or the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
In an interview on Nyankonton Mu Nsem on Rainbow Radio 87.5FM, Nti provided historical context, stating that the ruling NDC has secured the parliamentary seat five times, while the NPP has won it on two occasions since 1996.
This record, he argued, suggests the upcoming rerun could swing in favour of either major party.
The analyst’s comments were made in response to the Tamale High Court’s recent order for a rerun of the Kapndai parliamentary election.
Alex Emmanuel Nti elaborated, stating, “If we consider the political history in the constituency, we must agree that the Kapndai seat is not a virgin seat.
While the NDC has maintained the presidential vote in the area since 1996, the parliamentary victories—five for the NDC and two for the NPP—demonstrate that it is an open contest.”
He cautioned that while the contest is open, the electorate’s current focus on developmental outcomes might influence the by-election results. He suggested that constituents, in their pursuit of development, may decide to vote for the NDC candidate.
“Following the outcomes of some recent by-elections, we have observed instances where the people voted for the NDC, potentially based on the party’s performance in those areas recently. This trend could favour the NDC in Kapndai,” Mr Nti added.
He asserted that while the government cannot directly influence the poll’s outcome, voters will examine the situation holistically.
He cited commentary from former President Akufo-Addo during the Assin North by-election, where the former President suggested he could not work effectively with an opposition Member of Parliament—a plea which the voters ultimately disregarded.
The analyst said that although the outcome hinges on constituency-specific dynamics, the prevailing desire for rapid development is one of the greatest variables the NDC can leverage to its advantage in the Kapndai rerun.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
