Tourism Minister Andrew Egyapa Mercer Loses Sekondi Seat
Follow @eventlabgh < In a stunning turn of events, Ghana’s Minister for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Andrew Kofi Egyapa Mercer,...
In a stunning turn of events, Ghana’s Minister for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Andrew Kofi Egyapa Mercer, has lost his parliamentary seat in Sekondi after a closely contested 2024 election.
The incumbent Member of Parliament, representing the New Patriotic Party (NPP), was unseated by Blay Nyameke Armah of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), marking a dramatic shift in the constituency’s political landscape.
According to provisional results from the elections, which took place nationwide last Saturday, December 7, 2024, Blay Nyameke Armah secured a decisive victory with 14,558 votes (56.40%), while Egyapa Mercer garnered 11,084 votes (42.94%). Out of the total 25,813 votes cast, 171 ballots were rejected. This outcome represents a significant comeback for the NDC, which last held the Sekondi seat in 1996 under the late Albert Bosomtwi Sam.
Egyapa Mercer’s loss comes as a major blow to the NPP, particularly as he had built a strong reputation in Sekondi since first winning the seat in 2016. He succeeded Papa Owusu Ankomah, who retired after a long and successful tenure. Mercer retained the seat in 2020 with a solid track record of achievements. However, the 2024 election proved to be his toughest yet, ending his two-term reign.
As Minister for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Egyapa Mercer has been a prominent figure in the creative industry, championing initiatives to boost Ghana’s cultural heritage and promote the arts. His defeat raises questions about the continuity of some of these projects, as his departure from parliament could also signal a reshuffle in his ministerial role.
The election results have already sparked conversations in both political and entertainment circles. Many in the creative arts community are keenly watching to see how this change might affect the sector, especially as Ghana gears up for several high-profile international events in 2025.
Blay Nyameke Armah’s victory is being celebrated as a historic comeback for the NDC in Sekondi. His campaign emphasized connecting with the grassroots and addressing pressing issues in the constituency. His success underscores a shift in voter sentiment, signaling a desire for change after nearly a decade of NPP dominance.
Egyapa Mercer’s involvement in both politics and the creative industry made him a unique bridge between governance and entertainment. His influence brought a spotlight to Ghana’s tourism sector, blending politics with a vibrant cultural agenda. As a result, his loss is not just a political story—it’s also a significant moment for the entertainment industry, which has benefited from his policies.
The aftermath of the election will undoubtedly shape conversations in both sectors, as stakeholders and constituents reflect on the future.
Content Source: Ameyawdebrah.com
