On October 4th 2012, I was working with Storm FM in Sunyani. I received an unfamiliar call. The man on phone introduced himself as the Progressive Peoples Party (PPP) National Chairman Dr Brew Hammond. We talked about politics, how well I knew the PPP, if I bought into their principles and how well I knew and liked my constituency etc. He asked about my age, educational background and some other details. He went on to break the news to me that he had spoken to Dr.Papa Kwesi Nduom, and they wanted me to contest as a parliamentary candidate in my constituency (Tano North) on the ticket of the PPP. I was taken aback. What the heck is this? I retorted. Apparently they had done some thorough background checks and realised I liked politics, I took part in political debates and voiced concerns about my constituency as well. But to contest for an MP seat at this age? ah well. Though I was an Nkrumahist and loved the PPP ideologies, I had no such huge ambition.. Besides, this shocking notice was just some two months to the 2012 general elections. I asked for time to think about it. Met my dad (MHRIP), some key family members and community leaders. They thought it was not a bad idea at all. I already knew it was a herculean task for my slim bones but I gathered myself up and decided to give it a try. Honestly, I knew it was going to take a miracle for me to win, and miracles dont happen in African politics. But the sheer joy of going round the whole constituency, the opportunity to meet my people and lend a helping hand, and the innumerable experience from it spurred me on. The next week, Mr Brown flew down from Accra to my office and together with other executives, took me through the electoral processes and bla bla bla... I hit the ground, started processing my documents. From Tax Returns, Immigration Details, Police Forms, Asset Declaration, Medical report etc. I passed all. Then time to visit the over 30 palaces, to meet community chiefs and opinion leaders to announce my intention. Intensive door-to-door Campaign, Organized rallies, the constituency IEA debates, etc. At a point, I was amazed at the kind of massive reception and euphoria that greeted me in most communities. When chiefs I had only heard of on radio sit down at gatherings to welcome me. When great men attended my rallies and shook my hand for the bold step, when school chidren saw inspiration on my small face......It was so much for a starter but I knew God had a hand in it. Sometimes, our campaign car will get stuck in the mud along the poor roads. We got beaten by the rains, saw snakes, spent nights under trees but I still loved it. On the Ballot sheet, we were 7. Aside the NPP and NDC candidates, two of the contestants were my former lecturers, one was my dads classmate in the Training College and the other, a District Agricultural Officer. After the elections, I came third, behind the NPP and NDC. I received the highest ever votes for a non traditional party in the constituency and even beat both the NDC and NPP at some electoral areas. It was an amazing run, Really really breathtaking period in my life. I look back and see no regrets. Though I lost a whole lot chasing an ambition beyond me, I count the blessings. It was more of a humble beginning, I see it. Driving through the constituency tonight, noticing my poor people sleep in absolute peace. Recollecting all the good moments, the immense love shown me by these people. From the elderly, youth and even children (below the voting age), I feel goose bumps all over. And remembering all what I heard and saw moving around the villages during the campaig. The despicable living conditions. What the people confided in me that they wanted for a better life??? Hmmm. Not for money or for fame! But I just hope I can get higher and stronger enough to pay back these lovely people. I just hope I can one day serve, and pay back this community that has supported and given me so much. I only hope and pray to God because I know with him, ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE. !!!!
Posted on: Sat, 03 Jan 2015 03:07:03 +0000