In a recent turn of events, the Member of Parliament for Odotobiri Constituency in the Ashanti Region, Hon. Emmanuel Akwasi Gyamfi, found himself at the center of controversy following the arrest of a popular serial caller, Joseph Amoah, also known as Bashy. Media reports suggested that the arrest was made in response to Bashy’s prayers for a by-election to occur in the constituency. However, Hon. Gyamfi, on Sunday shed light on the context, clarifying the reasons behind his actions.
It was reported few days ago that Amansie Central District Police Command has arrested 40-year- old serial caller, Joseph Amoah known popularly as Bashy for praying on live radio for a by-election to occur in the Odotobri Constituency.
Mr. Joseph Amoah on Dompeace Radio urged the people of Odotobri Constituency to pray to God because the area is in dire need of development and that could only happen if there is a by-election.
Hon. Emmanuel Akwasi Gyamfi, speaking to the media in Obuasi explained that Bashy is not just an ordinary serial caller, but a special aide to Lawyer Anthony Mmieh, who is contesting him in the New Patriotic Party (NPP) primaries. This contestation for the parliamentary candidacy has given rise to a politically charged environment, and Hon. Gyamfi felt the need to address certain statements made by Bashy.
Clarifying his intentions, Hon. Gyamfi stated that he reported the matter to the police in order to have Bashy invited for an explanation regarding his call for a by-election in the constituency. By-elections can be triggered by specific circumstances, such as court orders, resignations, or unfortunate incidents like the passing away of an incumbent representative. Thus, Hon. Gyamfi wants Bashy to clarify what he meant by advocating for a by-election and in what context it should occur in Odotobiri.
The Member of Parliament further revealed that he had concerns due to Bashy’s previous actions. During the 2020 NPP parliamentary primaries, Bashy allegedly orchestrated a gathering at a cemetery, where he performed rituals to invoke the gods to harm Hon. Gyamfi. Given this history, Hon. Gyamfi found it necessary to exercise caution and report the matter to the police, particularly when the same individual expressed the need for a by-election.
Emphasizing that he is not trying to suppress freedom of speech, Hon. Gyamfi acknowledged the challenges the constituency faces, particularly regarding road infrastructure. While acknowledging that several road projects have been awarded to contractors, delays in payment from the government have hindered progress.
Hon. Emmanuel Akwasi Gyamfi emerged victorious in the NPP parliamentary primaries for Odotobiri constituency in 2020, receiving 369 votes (54.75%) compared to Lawyer Anthony Mmieh’s 305 votes (45.25%). Gyamfi went on to represent the party in the parliamentary elections and secured his seat for the fifth consecutive term. The MP is expected to receive another stiff competition from Lawyer Anthony Mmieh when the party opens its nominations.