By Opesika Tetteh Puplampu
Ada, Dec. 6, GNA – The Ada Constituency is in the Ada East District of the Greater Accra Region, known for its blend of rural and semi-urban communities, and serves as a hub for economic and cultural activities, with prominent markets and tourist attractions.
Ada has three main markets: Kasseh market, which is the largest, attracting traders from Eastern and Volta Regions on market days; the big Ada market; and the Ada Foah market, which has lesser patronage.
The constituency’s economy is centred around agriculture, fishing, and trading. Its proximity to water bodies supports fishing as a major livelihood, while the fertile land is suitable for cultivating crops like cassava, maize, and vegetables.
Ada has several tourist attractions, especially popular beach resorts such as Aqua Safari.
Education / Health
Ada constituency has public and privately owned basic schools providing the education needed to children in the area. The second cycle institutions include Ada Senior High School, Ada Technical Institute, and Bedeku Technical Institute. It also has a teacher training college.
It also has the necessary health institutions, with the highest being the Ada East District Hospital, which handles all kinds of health issues, including the recent cholera outbreak.
Voting Trends and Electoral History
Ada has been a stronghold of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) throughout the Fourth Republic. The constituency’s voting pattern consistently shows overwhelming support for the NDC, as reflected in the past three general elections.
In 2016, the current Member of Parliament (MP), Madam Comfort Doyoe Cudjoe, won the election with 80.42 percent, increasing her 2020 votes to 82.14 percent.
The NDC’s dominance, led by the incumbent madam Ghansah, has been unbroken since 2012. Her votes have steadily increased, reaching a record 82.14% in 2020.
Candidates for the 2024 General Election
This year’s election is a two-horse race between two women: the incumbent Comfort Doyoe Cudjoe Ghansah for the NDC, seeking a fourth term, and Dornukie Naa Norteye for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), a new face hoping to break the dominance of the NDC.
While Madam Ghanasah is relying on her consistent performance and grassroots dominance, Ms Norteye’s focus on infrastructure and economic development could appeal to voters seeking change in Ada.
The Ada Constituency is likely to witness a familiar political battle dominated by the NDC’s historical strength in the area. However, issues like underutilised projects and calls for improved infrastructure may create openings for the NPP’s Dornukie Naa Norteye to make inroads with younger and undecided voters.
The December 7 election will test whether Ada’s loyalty to the NDC will hold firm or if a new political dynamic will emerge.
GNA