22-year-old woman cites failed leadership as she declares Manhyia South bid

Twenty-two-year-old Nana Agyeiwaa Baffoe-Bonnie Michaels, popularly known as Okodie, has announced her intention to contest the Manhyia South parliamentary seat in the 2028 elections.

The aspiring lawmaker will contest on the ticket of the newly formed Base Movement Ghana, saying her decision is driven by a desire to provide accessible, accountable and people-centred leadership to residents of the constituency.

Addressing a press conference, Okodie said years of what she described as self-centred leadership had left many challenges unresolved, insisting it was time for a new generation of leaders committed to serving the people rather than pursuing personal or partisan interests.

“Enough is enough. This decision is born out of my unwavering belief that leadership is about service, integrity, competence and courage to stand for the people,” she said.

The 22-year-old identified youth unemployment and underemployment as major concerns in the constituency, arguing that many young people with qualifications and skills continue to struggle to secure decent jobs.

She also pointed to inadequate support for small businesses, saying traders, artisans and market women often face difficulties accessing affordable credit, skills training and business development opportunities.

According to her, educational infrastructure, healthcare delivery, poor roads, drainage, sanitation and waste management also require urgent attention to improve living conditions in the constituency.

On security, Okodie called for stronger community policing, improved street lighting and tougher measures to address theft and drug-related crime.

She further highlighted the need for greater digital inclusion, arguing that improved internet connectivity and information technology training would equip young people with the skills needed to compete in an increasingly digital economy.

“Our constituency needs an MP who is visible, accessible, consultative and accountable throughout the term. We need someone we can access, someone who doesn’t stay up there and doesn’t even come down to see the people,” she said.

Okodie maintained that her campaign would focus on practical solutions, grassroots engagement and responsive leadership, expressing confidence that voters in Manhyia South would embrace a new approach to representation in the 2028 general elections.

The Manhyia South seat is currently occupied by legal practitioner, Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah who took over from long time MP, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh after he was chosen for the New Patriotic Party’s ticket in 2024.