In a historic turn of events, the Biakoye constituency in the Oti Region has elected its first female parliamentary candidate during the recent National Democratic Congress (NDC) primary elections.
Jean-Marie Formadi emerged victorious, securing 490 votes against six contenders, including the incumbent Member of Parliament (MP), Kwadwo Nyanpon Aboagye.
This marks Jean-Marie Formadi's third attempt at the parliamentary seat, having contested in 2015 and 2019. A member of the NDC's national communications team, Formadi expressed determination, stating that previous defeats did not deter her from vying for the seat.
In an interview with Asaase News, she highlighted her commitment to developing the constituency through job creation and innovative initiatives.
Formadi expressed concern over the pace of development and citizen involvement during the two terms of the incumbent MP, noting the absence of town hall meetings for constituents to voice concerns and promote accountability.
She sees her victory in the primary election as a precursor to winning the 2024 general election, potentially becoming the first female MP for the area.
Vision for Development
Jean-Marie Formadi outlined her vision, focusing on skills training, education, and eradicating child trafficking in island communities within the constituency. She emphasized the need for agricultural and fishing development, considering them as major occupations in the region.
Formadi criticized the incumbent MP, Kwadwo Nyanpon Aboagye, for what she perceives as a lack of support for infrastructural development, fishing boats, and farming equipment. She accused him of favouring party members over the welfare of the masses.
Challenges and Promises
Formadi highlighted the challenges faced by schools in the constituency, citing a lack of basic infrastructure. She criticized the incumbent MP for attributing poor development to the party's opposition status, arguing that other opposition MPs are successfully developing their constituencies.
Calling on her contenders to unite for the general election, Formadi pledged to bring transformative development to the constituents if given the mandate in 2024.
As the first female parliamentary candidate for Biakoye, she aspires to usher in positive change and address longstanding issues faced by the community.
