The New Patriotic Party (NPP) newly elected Ashanti Regional Chairman, Odeneho Kwaku Appiah, popularly known as COKA, has warned party members against describing themselves as “incoming MP”, saying the practice undermines sitting Members of Parliament (MPs) and disrespects the party’s structures.

“I see people who are going about in the constituencies calling themselves ‘incoming MP’,” he said, addressing party members.

Mr Appiah said he had no objection to party members aspiring to become MPs, but opposed the practice of declaring oneself an “incoming MP” before the party’s parliamentary primaries and the general election.

He emphasised he was “absolutely not in support” of proclaiming oneself an incoming MP “when the time is not due for us to use the ballot papers”.

“It’s okay to support people at funerals with money but do not go announcing yourself as an incoming MP. We have cancelled that incoming MP tag,” he admonished.

Mr Appiah also called on party members and leaders to recognise his position as regional chairman and support his administration for the party's sake.

“Without your support I cannot succeed,” he noted.

He said it was his responsibility to ensure that sitting NPP MPs were respected and that the party’s structures were upheld.

“I will not sit unconcerned for anyone, including polling station staff, electoral area members, constituency officers, to disrespect you,” he said.

“Let’s all follow our laws,” he urged.

Mr Appiah stressed the importance of respecting the party’s structures and allowing elected officials to discharge their duties without any hinderance or disregard.

“And that is how we can win power,” he said.