APESÉMAKAHENE PRAISES SAMMI AWUKU, TAKES SWIPE AT NANA DOKUA OVER REPORTED AKUAPEM NORTH COMEBACK BID
The Mampong Akuapem Apesemakahene, Nana Yirenkyi I, has praised the Member of Parliament for Akuapem North, Lawyer Sammi Awuku, for what he describes as his impressive performance within his first two years in Parliament.
The traditional leader cited the MP’s engagement with constituents, interventions on roads, support for the Ofie Market and assistance with school fees as evidence of his commitment to the development of the constituency.
During an engagement with residents, Nana Yirenkyi contrasted Awuku’s performance with that of his predecessor, former MP Nana Ama Dokua Asiamah-Adjei, whom he criticised over what he described as her limited participation in community activities during her eight-year tenure.
He also questioned reports that the former MP was considering a return to contest the Akuapem North parliamentary seat after previously leaving the constituency to contest in Okaikoi North.
He wondered why she would seek to return after choosing to pursue a parliamentary contest elsewhere, insisting that representation of the constituency should not be treated as a political game.
“You were an MP and a Deputy Minister. You left here to contest in Okaikoi North. Why are we playing Premier League with Akuapem North?” he questioned.
Nana Yirenkyi said Awuku had demonstrated a stronger connection with residents by making efforts to attend traditional festivals and other important community events across the constituency.
He argued that the MP’s participation in local activities and attention to residents’ concerns reflected his commitment to the people.
The traditional leader also cautioned the former MP against assuming that campaign spending or financial inducements would guarantee her a return to Parliament.
He alleged that reports of her intention to spend money to secure political support would not necessarily influence voters.
“Even if we allow her to do her own album, they won’t vote for her. Akuapem people are very smart. They will take the money and vote against her,” he said.
Nana Yirenkyi maintained that voters in Akuapem North would make their decisions based on their assessment of the candidates rather than financial inducements.
His comments come amid discussions about the future political representation of the constituency, with the traditional leader expressing confidence in Sammi Awuku’s performance and relationship with residents.
