A 22-year-old law student, Nana Agyeiwaa Baffoe-Bonnie Michaels, popularly known as Okordie, has announced her intention to contest the Manhyia South parliamentary seat in the 2028 general election.
Speaking at a press briefing on Tuesday, the aspiring legislator said her decision was driven by a desire to provide “accessible, accountable and practical” leadership for constituents.
Addressing residents, traditional authorities, religious leaders, youth groups, women, persons with disabilities, business owners and other stakeholders, she said she was presenting herself with “humility, courage and a deep sense of responsibility.”
“I am one of you. I have experienced the problems, thick and thin moments, and therefore a befitting candidate who has heard and seen it all, so I understand the needs of the people,” she said.
According to Ms Baffoe-Bonnie Michaels, leadership should be centred on “service, integrity, competence and courage to stand for the people,” adding that she believes the constituency deserves representation focused on delivering practical solutions.
She identified youth unemployment and underemployment as major challenges facing Manhyia South, saying many young people remain unemployed despite possessing qualifications and skills.
She also pointed to limited support for small businesses, traders, artisans and women entrepreneurs, arguing that many struggle to access affordable credit, business development opportunities and training.
The law student further highlighted concerns over education, healthcare, road infrastructure, drainage systems, sanitation and waste management.
On security, she called for stronger community policing, improved street lighting and measures to tackle theft and drug-related crime.
Ms Baffoe-Bonnie Michaels also underscored the need to improve digital inclusion, saying greater access to information technology training, internet connectivity and digital opportunities would better equip young people to compete in the modern economy.
“We lack digital inclusion honestly. Greater access to IT, IT training, internet connectivity and digital opportunities can help young people compete in today’s economy,” she said.
She further argued that the constituency needs a Member of Parliament who is visible, accessible, consultative and accountable throughout their term in office.
“We need someone that we can access, someone who doesn’t stay up there and doesn’t even come down to see his people or her people,” she stated.
