I am Optimistic about my chances - Pancho

Four weeks after filing his nomination papers to contest the Nsuta/Kwamang/Beposo parliamentary seat for the NPP, Kwabena Manu states with conviction that he is optimistic about his chances this time around. He also stated that there are stringent rules that must be adhered to and that the rules have changed and it does not favor incumbents as it did in 2004 when they brought in other MP friends of theirs to speak and woo delegates on their behalf the day of the primaries.

When asked whether it might be an easy race, he replied, "Nothing comes easy on the face of this planet and unseating an incumbent is not an easy venture. One must work excessively hard to beat an incumbent. The campaign process is physically, emotionally and financially draining. This is the reality of politics. We were three (3) in 2004 and four (4) in 2008; thus making it a difficult battle but I am holding my playing cards to my chest".

Speaking to this writer as he went through notes he was preparing for an upcoming speaking engagement on "Leadership" at New York University, he was asked what his mission in life was and he replied, "I have a calling to work for the improvement of others. Ghana's Parliament will afford me the opportunity to give a more selfless service for the improvement of our country and the lot of others. I want to be of service to Ghana, my constituency and humanity".

The future MP; Kwabena Manu is an experienced mediator, negotiator and writer with excellent research and communication skills. He attended Star Preparatory (Kumasi), City of Kumasi Preparatory , Armed Forces Complex (Accra), Prempeh College and Mercy College in New York-USA where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Political Science with a minor in Journalism. He had to leave New York Law School after one (1) year due to financial reasons – a painful experience decision he had to make.

Kwabena Manu is a Union Representative for Westchester County's government employees and serves on the Contract Negotiations Committee. His responsibilities include; the interpretation of the Collective Bargaining Agreement/Contract (CBA). He advocates for members to secure better employment conditions and tolerable outcomes in cases of employment infractions. He is a member of the Coalition of Black Trade Unionist of USA (CBTU) – a Union/Labor pressure group.

Kwabena is the son of the late J. Y. Manu of Nsuta-Ashanti; an original founding member of the Danquah/Busia/UP/PP/NPP heritage of Ghana's politics. "J.Y" as he was affectionately called, was a Member of Parliament and Deputy Minister of Transport and Communications in the Progress Party administration of Dr. K. A. Busia.

Kwabena Manu is opposed to the imposition of candidates on constituents and has vowed to fight any and all undemocratic practices. If you want to contact kwabena Manu "Pancho" or donate to his campaign, write to him at Kwabenam722@yahoo.com.