By Daniel Bampoe
Former Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Microfinance and Small Loans Centre (MASLOC), Alberta Afia Asomaniwa Akoto, popularly known as Mame Afia Akoto or “Landlady”, has formally declared her intention to contest the New Patriotic Party (NPP) parliamentary primaries in the Okaikwei North Constituency.
Akoto is positioning her long-standing connection with the constituency, her experience in public service and her commitment to community development as the foundation of her ambition to represent Okaikwei North in Parliament.
In a personal message addressed to residents on Friday, the aspiring parliamentary candidate emphasised that her decision to enter the race was driven by her desire to serve a community she considers home, having lived there for more than four decades.
She said her relationship with the people of Okaikwei North goes beyond political ambition, explaining that she has shared in the community’s successes, difficulties and everyday experiences over the years.
“For more than 40 years, Okaikwei North has been my home. I have lived among you, shared in the joys and challenges of our community, and built lasting connections with the people who make this constituency special,” she stated.
Her declaration marks another development in the emerging contest for the NPP parliamentary candidacy in Okaikwei North ahead of the party’s preparations for the next general election.
Former MASLOC Deputy CEO makes case for parliamentary ambition
In her formal Declaration of Intent, Akoto stated that she was seeking the NPP parliamentary ticket to continue her commitment to public service and contribute more directly to the development of the constituency.
She described service as more than an obligation, stressing that it requires dedication, responsibility and a genuine commitment to improving the lives of the people.
“Service is not just a responsibility; it is a commitment to the people and the community we call home,” she stated in her declaration.
The former MASLOC Deputy CEO said her ambition was informed by the need for dedicated leadership, accessibility and effective representation, adding that she was prepared to listen to the concerns of residents and work towards addressing the challenges confronting the constituency.
She also outlined some of her priorities, including empowering young people, supporting women, creating opportunities and promoting development that benefits communities across Okaikwei North.
According to her, she intends to build on the progress already made while pursuing a broader vision that accommodates the needs and aspirations of different groups within the constituency.
Banks on 40 years of grassroots connection
One of the central messages in Akoto’s emerging campaign is her claim of more than 40 years of residence and association with Okaikwei North.
She believes her long-standing presence in the area gives her an understanding of the concerns of residents and the issues that require attention from political representatives.
Unlike candidates who may rely primarily on party structures and campaign networks, Akoto is seeking to make her personal relationship with the constituency a major part of her political appeal.
She has presented herself as someone who has lived among the people, experienced the community’s challenges and developed lasting relationships with residents.
“I am in the race because I believe our community deserves dedicated service, a listening ear and a strong voice,” she said.
She further assured residents of her willingness to engage with them, listen to their concerns and work towards building a brighter future for the constituency.
Women and youth empowerment feature in her vision
Akoto’s declaration also places considerable emphasis on women and young people, two groups she says must receive attention in the development agenda of Okaikwei North.
She wants to champion initiatives that expand opportunities for the youth, support women and promote inclusive development across the constituency.
