In the Builsa South Constituency, often hailed as the “food basket of the north.” Fumbisi, its district capital, is home to one of the largest markets in Northern Ghana, buzzing with activity as thousands flock there on market days. Apexnewsgh reports
This vibrant constituency shares its borders with the Builsa North Municipality to the north, the Mamprusi Moaduri district to the south, and the Sissala East and Mamprusi West Municipalities to the east and west, respectively. According to the 2021 population and housing census, Builsa South boasts a population of 36,547, comprised predominantly of the Builsa people, alongside various minority tribes such as the Fulbe, Asantes, Moshies, and Mamprusis. Farming is the lifeblood of the region, with the area historically recognized for its substantial rice production.
As the December 7th elections draw near, a quiet yet charged atmosphere engulfs the constituency. Political parties and their candidates are wrapping up their campaigns, often under the cloak of night, as many constituents are preoccupied with farming during the day.
Three candidates stand in contention for the parliamentary seat: Dr. Clement Abass Apaak of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), the incumbent; Daniel Kwame Gariba, the District Chief Executive (DCE) from the New Patriotic Party (NPP); and Christopher Akanzeboka Seidu of the People’s National Convention (PNC). Together, they vie for the approval of 21,867 registered voters, with 237 already having cast their votes during the special voting on December 2nd.
Historically, Builsa South has been a stronghold for the NDC since its establishment in 1992, having won six out of the last eight parliamentary elections. However, the constituency saw a surprising twist in 2008 when the PNC, led by Hon. Alhassan Azong, seized the seat, a feat almost unthinkable given the PNC’s dwindling presence elsewhere. The NDC, under Dr. Apaak’s leadership, reclaimed the seat in 2016 and successfully defended it in 2020 against both the PNC and NPP candidates.
In the previous elections, the NDC candidate had a significant victory in 2016, winning by a margin of 7,666 votes. The PNC followed with a notable performance, while the NPP struggled, obtaining only 2,814 votes. By 2020, the competition tightened, with Dr. Apaak earning 7,451 votes—a slight decline from his previous tally—while Daniel Gariba of the NPP saw an increase to 5,674 votes, suggesting a growing support base despite their party’s historical challenges in the constituency.
As the 2024 election unfolds, pressing issues are at the forefront of the constituents’ minds. Voters are concerned about the deteriorating road conditions, low electricity connectivity, rising unemployment, and pervasive economic hardship.
Dr. Apaak emphasizes the struggles faced by his community due to the absence of his party in the national government and advocates for a change after two terms of NPP leadership. In contrast, Daniel Gariba seeks to bolster his campaign by highlighting his achievements as DCE and criticizing the incumbent MP for not addressing these key issues during his tenure. Meanwhile, the PNC candidate aims to evoke memories of the PNC’s past successes, promising continuity and stability.
As Election Day approaches, the rivalry sharpens. The NDC and NPP dominate the political landscape, with Gariba hoping to bridge the gap of over 1,700 votes to finally change the narrative for the NPP in this constituency.
The outcome remains to be seen, but the stakes are undeniably high for the candidates and the constituents of Builsa South.
Source: Apexnewsgh.com
