The 2024 General Election results from the Dompim Electoral Area in the Tarkwa-Nsuaem Constituency have raised serious concerns within the New Patriotic Party (NPP), following what many have described as a dramatic shift in voter sentiment in one of its traditional strongholds. Dompim, which is the hometown of the sitting Member of Parliament (MP), Hon. George Mireku Duker, delivered a verdict that political watchers say cannot be ignored, especially by the leadership of the NPP in the Western Region and at the national level.
In what has been described by some as a political upset, the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) outperformed the ruling party in the presidential election within the area. The NPP secured 1,309 votes, while the NDC polled 1,782 votes, signalling a considerable decline in support for the ruling party at the grassroots.
The outcome of the parliamentary election also revealed cracks in the support base of the incumbent MP. While the NPP’s candidate, presumably Hon. Mireku Duker, managed 1,630 votes, the NDC was close behind with 1,339 votes. Though the NPP retained the lead in the parliamentary race, the narrowing gap has been interpreted by many as a warning sign of growing dissatisfaction among constituents.
Perhaps the most striking indication of this discontent came from the Bepɔ akyir polling station, where the NPP polled a mere 8 votes compared to the NDC’s commanding 268. Such a disparity in voter turnout in favour of the opposition in the MP’s home area is not only symbolic but also speaks volumes about the prevailing sentiments among the electorate.
A Changing Tide
Observers say the outcome reflects broader political undercurrents in the Tarkwa-Nsuaem Constituency. There are growing calls from within the party and among constituents for renewed leadership, one that understands the pulse of the people and is better positioned to address their needs. Several community members and opinion leaders have expressed concern over what they describe as a growing disconnect between the MP and the very people who entrusted him with their mandate.
While some cite issues of inadequate engagement, others point to the lack of visible development and a feeling of neglect as key drivers of the shifting political mood. As one resident of Dompim put it, “You cannot keep asking for loyalty from voters when they do not see the results of their loyalty on the ground.”
The Call for Renewal
Against this backdrop, there is an increasing clamour for change. Within the rank and file of the NPP, conversations are quietly but steadily gaining momentum around the need for new leadership one that can restore trust, mobilise the grassroots, and chart a new path for electoral victory in future contests.
One name that has gained attention in this regard is Fiifi Boafo, a communications expert and party loyalist whose potential candidacy is being viewed by many as a breath of fresh air. Party faithful, especially among the youth and floating voters, believe Mr Boafo brings a new sense of credibility, honesty, Inclusiveness, competence, selflessness, tolerance, humility, grassroots appeal, and the organisational skill needed to rebuild the party’s image and retrieve the seat from the Ndc in the constituency.
Supporters of this potential shift argue that the NPP, if it wishes to remain competitive in Tarkwa-Nsuaem and reclaim its dominance, must begin the process of rebranding itself from within. “we need Parliamentary candidate and MP who is democratic and will not also appoint polling station executives like Mireku Duker did in his two terms; the focus now is about results, relevance representation. And that is what Fiifi Boafo brings to the table” a polling station executive who spoke on condition of anonymity mentioned.
Looking Ahead to 2028
With the 2024 election now behind, attention has quickly turned to the road ahead. Party strategists and analysts agree that what happens over the next few months in Tarkwa-Nsuaem could shape the fortunes of the NPP not just in the constituency, but across the Western Region. A careful reassessment of the party’s leadership, message, and grassroots strategy will be critical if the NPP is to make a strong comeback in the 2028 elections.
For now, the results from Dompim serve as both a wake-up call and an opportunitya chance for introspection, renewal, and a re-engagement with the people. Whether the party heeds the call for change remains to be seen. But what is certain is that the people have spoken, and their message is clear: they are ready for leadership that listens, engages, and delivers.
In the words of a Dompim elder, “Loyalty must not be taken for granted. The people want to feel part of the governance process. If they are not heard, they will speak with their thumbs and they have.”
