Kwame Asare Obeng, widely known as A Plus, the newly elected Member of Parliament for Gomoa Central, has disclosed that both the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) have expressed interest in engaging him on his parliamentary alignment.
Speaking in an interview, A Plus revealed that while the NDC had already reached out to him for discussions, he criticized the NPP, describing their approach as “unserious” for failing to initiate contact so far.
“I’ve had discussions with the NDC about parliamentary alignment. For the NPP, they haven’t even reached out yet, which shows a level of unseriousness on their part,” A Plus remarked.
A Key Independent Figure in a Contentious Parliament
As an independent candidate, A Plus’s decision on parliamentary alignment could have significant implications for the dynamics of the 9th Parliament. With the NDC holding a majority and the NPP in opposition, A Plus is seen as a key player who could tilt the scales in critical parliamentary decisions.
“I am here to represent the people of Gomoa Central. I will align myself with policies and initiatives that genuinely benefit my constituents and the nation as a whole,” A Plus said, emphasizing his focus on governance over partisan loyalty.
The Rising Influence of Independent Candidates
A Plus’s victory in Gomoa Central highlights the growing influence of independent candidates in Ghanaian politics, especially amidst voter dissatisfaction with the two dominant political parties. His ability to win against the NPP and NDC underscores his appeal as a political outsider who resonates with citizens seeking change.
Implications for Parliament
- NDC Majority: The NDC’s overtures to A Plus signal their intent to consolidate their parliamentary majority. Aligning with him could strengthen their ability to pass legislation with minimal resistance.
- NPP’s Silence: A Plus’s critique of the NPP reflects the party’s challenges in engaging independent MPs to bolster their influence in Parliament.
- Policy-Driven Alignment: A Plus has maintained that his alignment will be driven by the interests of his constituents and not by partisan considerations.
Looking Ahead
Kwame Asare Obeng’s role in Parliament is already sparking discussions about the potential for independent voices to reshape Ghana’s political landscape. His decisions in the coming weeks could redefine parliamentary alliances and influence legislative priorities under the incoming John Dramani Mahama-led administration.
As Ghana’s Parliament gears up for its next chapter, all eyes will be on A Plus and how he leverages his position to advocate for his constituency and champion policies that reflect his campaign promise of “real change and accountability.”