NPP Schedules Manhyia South Primary for July 14 as NAPO Takes Running Mate Role

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has set the dates for a parliamentary primary in the Manhyia South Constituency in the Ashanti region, preparing for an upcoming by-election. This by-election follows the appointment of Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, the current Minister for Energy and Member of Parliament (MP) for the constituency, as the vice-presidential candidate for the NPP’s 2024 general elections.

Dr. Opoku Prempeh, often referred to as NAPO, has been a prominent figure in the Manhyia South Constituency since first being elected as MP in 2008. He has successfully secured re-election in subsequent years, including 2012, 2016, and 2020. As the NPP’s parliamentary candidate for this year’s election, his new role as a running mate has led to the need for a by-election.

In a statement released by the party’s General Secretary, Justin Kodua Frimpong, on Friday, July 5, the NPP detailed the timeline for the primary. Nominations will open on Monday, July 8, 2024, and close on Tuesday, July 9, 2024, with the primary scheduled for Sunday, July 14, 2024.

Prospective parliamentary candidates are required to obtain a nomination form by paying a non-refundable application fee of GH₵3,000. To officially file their nomination, candidates must also pay a non-refundable filing fee of GH₵35,000 via Bankers Draft to the NPP National Headquarters in Accra.

The NPP has also announced a 50% reduction in filing fees for women, youth (defined as individuals between 18 and 40 years of age), and persons with disabilities (PWDs). This means eligible candidates in these categories will pay a reduced fee of GH₵17,500.

As of now, the Electoral Commission has not yet set a date for the by-election.