After four years without a parliamentary representative, the people of Guan Constituency have finally elected their first-ever Member of Parliament (MP), ushering in hopes for development and growth in the area.

Fred Agbenyo of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) emerged victorious in the race, securing 9,963 out of 13,164 valid votes cast.

His closest rival, Michael Osibo of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), garnered 2,998 votes.

Mr. Agbenyo’s win marks the end of the constituency’s absence from Parliament, a situation which has left residents longing for effective representation.

Guan Constituency, which covers an expansive 1,722 square kilometres, is known for its vibrant agricultural sector.

However, the lack of a parliamentary representative in the 2020 general elections, despite residents voting in the presidential race has hindered the area's growth.

Many residents expressed that the lack of an MP to advocate for their needs has negatively impacted their development and economic progress.

In the presidential election, former President John Dramani Mahama, the NDC's candidate, secured 10,603 votes in the constituency, while the NPP’s Dr Mahamudu Bawumia obtained 2,103 votes.

Other presidential candidates, including Daniel Augustus Lartey (GCPP) and Christian Kwabena Andrews (GUM), received minimal support.

In his victory speech, The MP-elect thanked the people of Guan for placing their trust in him and the NDC party.

He pledged to deliver transformative development, improve healthcare, education, job creation, and agricultural infrastructure.

“I am committed to empowering the people of Guan and driving forward the policies of the NDC government for the benefit of all,” Mr. Agbenyo stated.

"Let us unite for a brighter, prosperous future,” he urged.

Mr. Agbenyo also called for cooperation with his political rivals, urging them to join him in developing the constituency.

"This is not about political gains, but about the future of our people," he added.

Residents, speaking to Class News, emphasised that they had elected Mr. Agbenyo for development, not politics.

They urged him to focus on key issues such as road infrastructure, job creation, water systems, quality education, agriculture, and healthcare.

“We expect him to deliver on projects that will benefit us, particularly the youth,” said a resident.

The people of Guan have pledged their support to ensure their constituency flourishes under Mr. Agbenyo’s leadership.