Bawku reacts to sentencing of MP

Story: Benjamin Xornam Glover, Bawku Family members and supporters of the convicted Member of Parliament for the Bawku Central constituency in the Upper East Region are distraught at the conviction of their representative in parliament. Speaking to some supporters of the New Patriotic Party, (NPP), in Bawku, they said although they are troubled at the outcome of the legal tussle, they are optimistic lawyers for the MP will work hard at securing the freedom of the MP through an appeal. Mr Adamu Dramani was convicted and sentenced to two years imprisonment for each of the three counts of perjury, deceit of a public officer and false declaration of office Mr. Mohammed Tahiru Nambe, a family member of the MP said even though they are shocked they are in touch with lawyers of the MP in order to see the way forward. During a tour of Natinga and other suburbs of Bawku, some supporters of the jailed MP were seen sitting in groups discussing the imprisonment of their MP. They were visibly shocked at the ruling. They however vowed to explore all legitimate means and strategy to ensure that the opposition NPP retain the seat irrespective of the latest court ruling. The jailed MP was retained by the NPP as the parliamentary candidate for the December elections and according to the supporters, they least expected that he will be the incarcerated. They however pledged to work hard to ensure that the NPP retain the seat no matter what. Reacting to rumors that people were jostling to replace the MP in the race for parliament, Mr. Nambe said this is not the time for people to fight for the candidature for the constituency but rather a period for all to work hard to secure the freedom of the incarcerated MP. Meanwhile, executives of the NPP in the Bawku Central Constituency, has cautioned party supporters to remain calm as they explore ways secure the freedom of the MP. The Bawku Central Constituency Secretary of the NPP, Amadu Hamza expressed optimism that the legal team will do all it can have the MP released on bail. July 30,2012