Takoradi, May 6, GNA - Mr Augustus Agyepong, a 54-year-old chemical seller in Sekondi, has declared his intention to contest the parliamentary seat for the Sekondi constituency as an independent candidate.

Mr Agyepong, popularly known as "Shadow" was a founding member of the Sekondi constituency of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and severed as the constituency treasurer from 1993-97.

He defected to the National Democratic Congress (NDC) later, and became the head of the constituency branch of the Veranda Boys and Girls Club before becoming the assembly member for Asamansodo electoral area.

Speaking in an interview with the Ghana News Agency (GNA) in Takoradi on Thursday, Mr Agyepong said he has decided to stand as an independent candidate because a research carried out by some opinion leaders showed that an independent parliamentary candidate was needed, if peace and harmony were to prevail in the area.

He said, "this is because supporters of the two main political parties, NDC and NPP have taken an entrenched positions to such an extent that, they are not prepared to co-operate with Members of Parliament not belonging to their parties and this has really affected the development of the constituency".

Mr Agyepong added that " to some people my decision may seem to be an uphill task, but since my popularity cuts across the political divide, it will be an easy task for me and I am optimistic of winning". He said when voted into power, he would see to it that the Sekondi railway station is rehabilitated, the Sekondi Beach and the Essel Lagoon would be developed into a tourist attraction and also work to ensure that poverty reduction loans were increased.