Veteran Politician Reflects on Decades of Electoral Struggles in Central Region Stronghold
Veteran Ghanaian politician Johnson Asiedu Nketia has opened up about the intense political battles he endured while representing the Ajumako-Enyan-Essiam constituency, describing the contests as some of the fiercest in his long-standing career.
Speaking at a recent political gathering, the former General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) recounted moments of high-stakes campaigning, stiff opposition, and what he described as relentless attempts by rivals to unseat him from the parliamentary seat.
“Every Election Was a Battlefield” – Asiedu Nketia
According to Mr. Asiedu Nketia, elections in the constituency were never routine exercises but full-scale political confrontations. He indicated that each electoral cycle demanded strategy, resilience, and unwavering support from party faithful.
He recalled periods marked by heated rhetoric, intense voter mobilisation, and closely contested results that tested both his political experience and grassroots appeal. Despite the pressure, he said the support of constituents kept him grounded and determined.
Grassroots Loyalty and Political Resilience
The outspoken politician credited his longevity in Parliament to strong community ties and sustained engagement with constituents. He noted that building trust at the local level was key to surviving the political storms that characterised the constituency’s elections.
Mr. Asiedu Nketia emphasized that political leadership requires endurance, especially in areas where competition is deeply entrenched and party loyalties run strong.
Lessons for the Next Generation
Reflecting on his journey, he encouraged younger politicians to prepare for adversity and remain focused on service rather than personal ambition. He stressed that political success is built on consistency, credibility, and a genuine commitment to the people.
He further described the constituency as a training ground that shaped his political career and fortified his resolve within national politics.
Ajumako-Enyan-Essiam: A Historic Political Battleground
Located in Ghana’s Central Region, the Ajumako-Enyan-Essiam constituency has long been considered politically active and competitive. Over the years, it has produced influential figures and witnessed dramatic electoral contests that reflect broader national political dynamics.
Asiedu Nketia’s reflections offer a rare glimpse into the behind-the-scenes struggles that define Ghana’s constituency-level politics, underscoring the grit required to navigate its often turbulent terrain.
