Bakutoma A prominent member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Bawku Central seat, Abubakar Iddi Wuni, has announced his departure from the party in order to run as an independent in the 2024 parliamentary election.
He said that this decision is the result of his increasing dissatisfaction with how the party and government have handled issues and their recent treatment of traditional leadership.
Mr. Bakutoma explained his reasons for quitting the NPP, a party he has long supported and contributed to, at a press conference on Sunday, July 28, in Bawku.
“Over the years, I have dedicated myself to the principles and values that our party stands for people-centred governance, development in freedom, and the rule of law,” he said.
“Unfortunately, for the past seven years and counting, it has become increasingly clear that my party does not care about the concerns of the people I want to represent.”
Using the warrant issued by the Bolgatanga High Court on February 18, 2023, to arrest the Overload of the Mamprugu traditional area, Naa Bohagu Mahami Abdulai Sheriga, he conveyed his extreme discontent with the NPP government’s handling of chieftaincy matters.
Even after the arrest warrant was revoked, Mr. Bakutoma observed that the Nayiri and Mamprugu people had not received an official apology, characterising the move as a grave transgression of traditional authority.
“The NPP government’s actions in attempting to arrest the King of Mamprugu, HRM the Nayiri, have gravely deepened my discontent. Though the warrant was subsequently withdrawn, the NPP and/or government has not found it prudent to apologise to the Nayiri and Mamprugu,” he stated.
“Such actions not only undermine the dignity and reverence owed to our traditional leaders but also highlight a disregard and contempt toward the Nayiri.”
Mr. Bakutoma underlined that he consulted with a range of community stakeholders, including opinion leaders, elders, and young people, before deciding to run as an independent.
He thinks that this action will better represent the inhabitants of Bawku Central.
“My commitment to serving my constituents and advocating for their welfare remains steadfast. I believe this is the best way to ensure that the voices of my people are heard and their needs are addressed.”
Mr. Bakutoma outlined his prior community service and highlighted a number of projects he led, such as supplying farmers with irrigation equipment, setting up health screening programs, and funding women’s skill development.
He contended that these actions show his commitment to his community’s welfare.
In addition, he stated that his choice to run alone is an attempt to bridge partisan divides within the Bawku constituency.
“We are one people with one common destiny. Whether you are a member or sympathizer of the NDC, NPP, or even non-political, we are one people with a common destiny. Moving forward, I am hopeful that this decision will allow for a renewed focus on the issues that matter most to our community.”
Mr. Bakutoma expressed his willingness to collaborate with any political party that aligns with the interests of Bawku Central.
“My primary focus remains the well-being and progress of our constituency, and we are open to partnerships that will help us achieve our goals for a better Bawku,”
He said.
Mr. Bakutoma will have fierce competition from Paul Alale Agobire, the NPP’s parliamentary candidate for Bawku Central, and National Democratic Congress (NDC) MP Mahama Ayariga, the current member.
