Member of Parliament (MP) for New Juaben South, Michael Okyere Baafi, has said the electoral defeat of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) demonstrates how unpredictable Ghanaian voters can be, despite what he described as strong policy performance during the NPP's tenure in government.

Speaking on Angel FM Kumasi, the MP and former Deputy Trade and Industry Minister noted that political actors often underestimate the possibility of losing power.

“When one is in governance, they think they will never go into opposition,” he said.

Okyere Baafi recalled the NPP’s return to power in 2016 and the optimism that followed its policies.

“We came into power in 2016 and introduced policies that were very good, policies that, in some cases, had not been seen anywhere in the world. At the time, many believed the NDC would remain in opposition for 30 to 40 years, some even said forever,” he stated.

He, however, pointed out that the political tide shifted quickly.

“In just four years, we nearly lost the election, and in 2024, we finally lost. The electorate are full of surprises,” he added.

According to him, changing voter expectations, particularly among younger demographics, played a significant role in the outcome.

“These Gen Alpha and Gen Z voters are unpredictable, and their voting patterns are unprecedented. What they are looking for is jobs,” he explained.

The MP used the reflection to reiterate his criticism of the Ashanti Regional Minister, Frank Amoakohene, accusing him of failing to prioritise employment creation.

“I know a regional minister who has facilitated jobs for about 120 people in Accra within 16 months, but in the Ashanti Region, our minister is busy painting interchanges and behaving like Nebuchadnezzar, as if he is simply enjoying himself,” he alleged.

Okyere Baafi stressed that the primary responsibility of political leaders is to improve livelihoods through employment.

“A minister should impact the lives of the people by creating jobs. That is the only way people will appreciate your leadership,” he concluded.

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