A stalwart of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) has parted ways with the party after many years of being an active, influential member in the Bawku Constituency.

Bakutoma Abubakar Iddi Wuni, whose prominence in the NPP has been unmistakable in the Bawku Constituency, announced his departure from the party, citing several reasons, notably the NPP Government’s failure to address key economic challenges of the constituents of Bawku and its handling of chieftaincy issues.

“Over the years, I have dedicated myself to the principles and values that our party stands for: people-centred governance, development in freedom, and the rule of law,” he said.

“Unfortunately, for the past seven years, it has become increasingly clear that my party does not address the concerns of the people I want to represent,” he said in a press conference yesterday.

On chieftaincy matters, he accused the Government of seeking to undermine the authority of the overlord of Mamprugu and failing to apologize when the attempt failed.

“The NPP government’s attempt to arrest the King of Mamprugu, HRM the Nayiri, has significantly deepened my discontent. Although the warrant was eventually withdrawn, the NPP and/or the government has not found it necessary to apologize to the Nayiri and the Mamprugu people. Such actions undermine the dignity and respect owed to our traditional leaders and reveal a disregard and contempt for the Nayiri,” he added.

He announced his intention to run as an independent parliamentary candidate for the area to champion their best interests.

“My commitment to serving my constituents and advocating for their welfare remains steadfast. I believe this is the best way to ensure that the voices of my people are heard and their needs are addressed,” he noted.

His departure from the NPP at this critical time – when campaigning for the 2024 General Elections is in full swing – negatively impacts the NPP in the Constituency, given that the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) holds the parliamentary seat.