The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has decided to replace Joseph Frempong, the Member of Parliament for Nkawkaw in the Eastern Region, due to health concerns. This decision follows deliberations by the party’s National Executive Council (NEC).
Joseph Frempong, who secured the Nkawkaw seat in 2020, has been struggling with health issues that have hindered his ability to campaign effectively.
Despite his efforts, his condition has worsened, prompting the party to seek a replacement, going into the December 7, 2024 parliamentary election.
David Boateng Asante, the Managing Director of Ghana Publishing Company Limited, has emerged as the frontrunner to replace Frempong.
Asante is an accomplished leader with a background in international trade, communications, and transformational leadership.
He is also known for his civic engagement, having led the “Let My Vote Count Alliance,” which played a pivotal role in advocating for democratic processes in Ghana.
As a long-time member of the NPP, Asante’s political journey began early, when he became the youngest head of the Industrial Art Faculty at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST).
He later served as the first SRC President from the College of Art and Social Sciences at KNUST and played key roles in Nana Akufo-Addo’s presidential campaigns.
Under Asante’s leadership, Ghana Publishing Company Limited underwent significant transformation, including the establishment of a new branch in Kumasi, the digitization of services, and staff professional development.
His diverse experience in management, human resources, and corporate governance makes him an attractive candidate for the Nkawkaw seat.
The NPP sees this move as strategic to retain the Nkawkaw constituency, a stronghold for the party. The final decision will be made following a meeting between the National Executives and the Nkawkaw Constituency Executives, with an official announcement expected soon.
If confirmed, NPP Presidential Candidate Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia will introduce David Asante to the constituents, reinforcing the party’s election strategy.
Joseph Frempong, who was previously a teacher and lecturer, won the Nkawkaw seat in 2020 with 44,067 votes, defeating the NDC candidate Oppong Francis. He currently serves on the Gender and Children Committee and the Communications Committee in Parliament.
PROFILE
David Boateng Asante is a transformational leader with a background in international trade, communications, and civic engagement. As the Managing Director of Ghana Publishing Company Limited (GPCL), he has driven significant improvements in the company, including the establishment of new branches, staff development, and modernization efforts.
Politically, Asante is known for his role as the convener of the “Let My Vote Count Alliance,” advocating for democratic processes in Ghana.
He has held leadership roles in the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and has been a prominent figure in national campaigns.
His education includes a Master’s in International Trade from Anhalt University, Germany and a Bachelor’s in Industrial Art from KNUST.
He is also pursuing an LLB at GIMPA. His work experience spans multiple sectors, with leadership roles in human resources, marketing, and public affairs, both locally and internationally.
Asante is a dedicated community volunteer, having led initiatives in education and healthcare across Ghana.
He is recognized for his contributions to nation-building and has received various awards for his leadership and impact.
Married with three children, Asante is passionate about continuous learning, drawing inspiration from global leaders such as Kofi Annan and Nelson Mandela.
By Jesse Otoo