A closely contested election at the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration has ended in a historic breakthrough, as Valerie Elikem Kportufe emerged victorious to become the institution’s first-ever female SRC President.
Kportufe secured 437 votes (52.83%), narrowly defeating her main contender, Felix Osei Darko, who garnered 392 votes (47.17%), according to official results declared on May 1, 2026.
A Race Decided at the Polling Centres
The election outcome was determined by results from two key polling centres, highlighting the competitive nature of the race.
Kportufe dominated at the Law School Foyer, polling 323 votes against Darko’s 189. However, Darko secured a strong lead at the Main Bar Lawn with 203 votes, compared to Kportufe’s 114.
The final margin of just 45 votes underscores how tightly contested the election was.
More Leaders Emerge
Alongside the presidential race, Oswald Ini Adom Aba was elected Vice President.
In the treasurer position, Ernest Teye was endorsed after securing 668 “Yes” votes, representing 86.08% approval.
A Turning Point for Representation
Kportufe’s victory is being widely viewed as part of a broader transformation in student leadership at GIMPA, where women are increasingly taking up top roles.
Her election follows earlier milestones, including Yaa Amoako-Adu, who became the first female SRC President at the Takoradi Campus in 2023, and Phyllis Marfoa Ayeh, who made history in 2025.
A Call Beyond Victory
While the historic nature of the win stands out, the SRC Electoral Commission has shifted focus toward unity, urging students to rally behind the newly elected leadership.
The Commission commended candidates, officials, and the student body for conducting a peaceful and credible election, emphasizing the need for collective support as the new administration takes office.
Kportufe’s victory not only reshapes leadership at GIMPA but also signals a growing momentum for gender inclusion in student governance across Ghana’s tertiary institutions.
