Since its formation in 2012, the Madina Constituency has been a traditional stronghold for the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
However, the political landscape shifted in 2016 when the New Patriotic Party (NPP) won the seat, marking a significant development in the area.
With the upcoming elections on December 7, 3news visited Madina to explore the dynamics that could influence voter decisions in, a predominantly Muslim community that was carved out from the Abokobi-Madina Constituency.
Madina serves as the capital of the La Nkwantanang Madina Municipal District, one of 29 districts in Ghana’s Greater Accra Region, and is the 12th most populous settlement in the country.
According to the Electoral Commission’s 2020 data, the Constituency has around 150,000 eligible voters. But the crucial question remains: Will they all turn out to vote?
One resident expressed confidence in the importance of voting, stating, “As a Ghanaian, I will definitely exercise my franchise. We know who will develop our country, and that’s who we’ll vote for.”
Conversely, 19-year-old Michael revealed his decision not to vote, reflecting a sentiment shared by some young citizens.
Historically, the Madina Constituency has been represented by Alhaji Amadu Bukari Sorogo of the NDC since 2004, until 2016 when NPP candidate Abu-Bakar Saddique Boniface won with 55% of the vote.
However, the NDC reclaimed the seat in 2020 with incumbent MP Francis Xavier Sosu, who defeated Saddique by over 62,000 votes.
As the 2024 elections approach, Sosu is set to face NPP’s Robert Lamptey, following the withdrawal of independent candidate Prince Moses Zakaria.
Key issues for voters
In line with broader trends across Greater Accra, key issues such as economic concerns and local infrastructure are shaping voter sentiment.
Residents have expressed their frustrations regarding sanitation and road conditions.
One individual pointed out the lack of armed robbery incidents in the area, yet highlighted the urgent need for better waste management, stating, “Sanitation is abysmal. It’s our duty to keep our surroundings clean.”
Another resident echoed this sentiment, mentioning the challenges posed by flooding and clogged gutters, which sometimes necessitate external assistance for cleanup.
Reflecting on the impact of politics on infrastructure, one voter remarked, “Our roads are in a deplorable state. A journey that should take five minutes can take over thirty minutes. We’ve witnessed these issues, and we know who to vote for.”
A Constituency to watch
As the residents of Madina prepare to exercise their fundamental right to vote, critical issues weighing on their minds will undoubtedly influence their choices in the upcoming election.
