Ghanaian actor-turned-politician John Dumelo has achieved a major milestone in his political career by winning a parliamentary seat in the 2024 Ghana general elections.
Representing the Ayawaso West Wuogon constituency, Dumelo ran on the platform of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and emerged victorious against the incumbent Lydia Alhassan of the New Patriotic Party (NPP). This victory marks a turning point for Dumelo, who had previously faced a narrow defeat to Alhassan in the 2020 elections.
The election, held on December 9th, 2024, saw Dumelo garnering an impressive 40,561 votes, while his opponent, Lydia Alhassan, received 27,377 votes. Dumelo's triumph is not only a personal achievement but also a reflection of the broader political shift occurring in Ghana, as the NDC made significant gains across the country, unseating several prominent MPs from the ruling NPP.
In his victory speech, Dumelo expressed deep gratitude to his supporters and emphasized the importance of addressing the needs of the people over monetary influence. "The people of Ghana have been calling for change, and they’ve shown that if you don’t perform well or if you’re arrogant, they will vote you out," Dumelo stated. He further added, "This is a valuable lesson for everyone. It’s not about money; it’s about the development of the people and addressing their needs."
Dumelo's journey from the entertainment industry to politics began with his acting debut in 1991 with the film "Baby Thief." Over the years, he became a household name in both Ghollywood and Nollywood, starring in numerous productions such as "Away Bus," "The Game," "Black Men Rock," "One Night In Vegas," "The King is Mine," and "Four Play." His transition into politics was marked by a commitment to bringing meaningful change and guiding Ghana in the right direction.
The 2024 elections were a pivotal moment for the NDC, which declared victory in 185 parliamentary seats, signaling a dramatic shift in Ghana's political landscape. The party's success was evident in various constituencies, where they managed to unseat several incumbent MPs from the NPP.
Notable victories included Nurein Shiabu Migyimah in Assin Central, Seid Mubarak in Sunyani East, and Jean-Marie Formadi in Biakoye Constituency, among others.
The election results highlighted the electorate's desire for change and accountability, as many voters opted for NDC candidates who promised to prioritize development and address local issues. The NDC's gains were not limited to Dumelo's constituency; they extended across the nation, with candidates like Emelia Ankomah making history by flipping traditionally NPP-held seats such as Upper Denkyira East.
Dumelo's victory is part of a larger narrative of political transformation in Ghana, where the electorate is increasingly demanding transparency, integrity, and effective governance. As Dumelo takes on his new role as a Member of Parliament, he has pledged to work diligently over the next four years to fulfill his campaign promises and contribute to the nation's progress.
The 2024 elections also saw former President John Mahama of the NDC winning the presidential race, further consolidating the party's influence in Ghanaian politics. Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia conceded defeat and congratulated Mahama, marking a peaceful transition of power.
Comments