By Emmanuel Gamson
Takoradi, Dec.5, GNA – Parliamentary Candidates (PCs) for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Ellembelle Constituency of the Western Region failed to show up when the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) organised a debate for PCs in the area.
Mr Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, the incumbent Member of Parliament (MP) and NDC PC, and Mr Kwasi Bonzoh, NPP PC, all failed to honour their invitations to the event.
Mr John Nkum of the Progressive People’s Party (PPP), was the only candidate that participated in the exercise.
The debate, organised at Esiama, was part of the NCCE’s mandate to promote democratic governance, and provided a platform for the candidates to deliberate on issues of development concern in the Constituency, while outlining their policies to tackle them when voted to Parliament.
Mr Samuel Aibi, the Ellembelle District Director of the NCCE, speaking during the event said it highlighted the importance of civic engagement and the need for candidates to connect with their constituents while outlining their policies.
However, the absence of the candidates of the two main political parties raised concerns about their dedication to representing the constituency when given the nod as MP, he stated.
He said to foster a more inclusive and representative democracy, it was essential for all candidates to participate in such dialogues and engage with their constituents to help them make informed decisions during the day of election.
Mr Aibi called on the electorate to uphold the tenets of the 1992 Constitution, and ensure peace prevailed before, during and after the December 7 election.
The occasion was graced by Mr Isaac Opare from the NCCE Head Office, Mr Kwame Tugbenu, Deputy Western Regional Director of the NCCE, and Mr Stephen Cudjoe of the National Peace Council among other stakeholders.
GNA
