Delegates of the New Patriotic Party in the Ayawaso Central constituency of the Greater Accra Region express agitation over unexpected demands for accreditation by security officers before entering the polling station, causing a delay in the commencement of voting.
Similarly, at the Yendi Senior High School in the Northern Region, police are implementing measures such as confiscating delegates' mobile phones to prevent picture-taking. Tensions rise at the Yendi voting centre as some supporters block perceived opponents from entering, nearly leading to chaos.
Leading up to the primaries, a series of injunctions marked the vetting processes, with the party electing parliamentary candidates in orphan constituencies in December 2023. Some sitting MPs run unopposed and are acclaimed, while others declare their non-re-election intentions for various reasons, a move criticized for potential negative impacts on parliamentary activities.
Numerous new faces enter the race, aspiring to win the primaries and represent their constituencies. Incumbent MPs seeking re-election are optimistic about winning and advancing to the 2024 general elections.
NPP's General Secretary, Justin Kodua Frimpong, warns of strict adherence to party rules by members, machomen, and delegates. The ongoing primaries are expected to witness the defeat of some incumbent MPs and the emergence of new candidates who will face off against rivals from the National Democratic Congress, other political parties, and independent candidates in the 2024 elections.