Former Bekwai MP and former First Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Joe Osei-Wusu, popularly called “Joe Wise” says the race for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Ashanti Regional chairmanship is tilting in favour of Odeneho Kwaku Appiah, popularly known as COKA, citing stronger grassroots mobilisation and sustained regional presence.

Speaking in an interview with Kumasi-based Fox FM, Joe Osei-Wusu said he initially expected the contest to go unopposed until former Bantama MP and former CEO of the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA), Henry Kwabena Kokofu, entered the race.

Chairman Odeneho Kwaku Appiah ( COKA)

He argued, however, that Kokofu’s late entry and limited engagement in the Ashanti Region compared with COKA’s continuous political activities had given the latter an advantage.

“COKA has been working thoroughly and connecting with the NPP in Ashanti Region,” he said, adding that the difference in visibility and organisation placed him “way ahead” in the contest.

Joe Osei-Wusu also referenced their shared political history under former NPP MP Dr Richard Anane, noting their early activism in Kumasi, including mobilisation efforts during a protest against then Kumasi Mayor Akwasi Agyemang under the Rawlings administration.

Chairman Odeneho Kwaku Appiah ( COKA)

He recalled that the protest, which drew significant local resistance at the time, ultimately led to intervention by then-President Jerry John Rawlings through the Asantehene.

The Ashanti Regional NPP chairmanship race has been drawing increased attention within the party as aspirants intensify consultations ahead of internal elections expected to shape the region’s political direction.Source:Jonathan Ofori