A NINETY MINUTE FEATURE FILM

DIRTY
POLITRICX
STORY/SCREENPLAY: DOUGLAS NANA SARPONG &
KWABENA AGYEMAN

Role:

Name:

Signature:

Role Approved By:

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 CAST

1. ACQUAH
2. ODURO
3. GYASI
4. OFORI
5. BOZANGA
6. ABONGO
7. KABRUTU
8. AFRAM
9. BONSU
10. GILBERT
11. AFRIFA
12. ALICE
13. NYARKOAA
14. ACHIAA
15. AMINA
16. MAAME TIWAA
17. ATAA
18. ALHAJI HALIDU BINTU
19. AGYEI
20. KODUA
21. SERWAA
22. AKUA
23. DANSOAA
24. BAFFOUR
25. NANA
26. OKYEAME
27. ELDER 1
28. ELDER 2
29. PASTOR WIAFE
30. ELDER ASARE
31. KOOFIE
32. KWAKYE
33. ASOR
34. ISAAC (YOUNG BOY)
35. ASIAMAH (YOUNG BOY)
36. ELECTORAL OFFICER 1
37. ELECTORAL OFFICER 2

HORDE CAST
 MARKET WOMEN EXTRAS
 VILLAGE GATHERINGS EXTRAS
 NANA/OKYEAME EXTRAS

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 POLLING STATION EXTRAS
 CHURCH EXTRAS
 JOINT ALL NIGHT EXTRAS
 APP EXTRAS
 NPD EXTRAS

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Contents
EXT DAY. .................................................................................................................................. OPENING SCENE
1. INT DAY. DISTRICT LEVEL MEETING OF THE APP IN A ROOM.............................................................7
2. EXT DAY. MARKET..............................................................................................................................7
3. EXT NIGHT. SOMEWHERE IN THE BUSH:............................................................................................8
4. EXT DAY. ACQUAH’S COMPOUND......................................................................................................9
5. EXT DAY. UNDER A TREE..................................................................................................................10
6. EXT DAY. ACQUAH’S COMPOUND...................................................................................................10
7. INT DAY. PRIVATE MEETING OF SELECTED APP MEMBERS..............................................................11
8. INT DAY. CHURCH HALL....................................................................................................................12
9. EXT DAY. VILLAGE SQUARE...............................................................................................................13
10. EXT DAY. VILLAGE SQUARE...........................................................................................................13
11. EXT DAY. ODURO’S FARM.............................................................................................................14
12. EXT DAY. CHIEF’S PALACE.............................................................................................................15
13. EXT DAY. VILLAGE MARKET..........................................................................................................16
14. EXT DAY. POLLING STATION........................................................................................................16
15. MONTAGE....................................................................................................................................16
16. EXT DAY. APP MEMBERS MEET AT ODURO’S COMPOUND.........................................................17
17. INT NIGHT. DRINKING BAR...........................................................................................................18
18. EXT NIGHT. IN THE BUSH..............................................................................................................19
19. INT NIGHT. GYASI’S HALL..............................................................................................................19
20. EXT DAY. ACQUAH’S COMPOUND................................................................................................20
21. EXT DAY. PALM WINE BASE.........................................................................................................20
22. EXT DAY. VILLAGE MARKET..........................................................................................................21
23. EXT DAY. LONELY PATH...............................................................................................................22
24. INT DAY. CHURCH OFFICE.............................................................................................................22
24. INT DAY. ACQUAH’S HALL.............................................................................................................23
25. INT DAY. ODURO’S HALL..............................................................................................................23
26. EXT DAY. STREET..........................................................................................................................24
27. INT DAY. ALHAJI HALIDU BINTU’S COMPOUND............................................................................24
28. INT NIGHT. GYASI’S BEDROOM....................................................................................................25
29. INT DAY. ALHAJI HALIDU BINTU’S COMPOUND...........................................................................26
30. EXT DAY. MAAME TIWAA’S COMPOUND.....................................................................................26
31. EXT DAY. OUTSIDE: CLOSE TO ALHAJI HALIDU BINTU’S COMPOUND...........................................26
32. INT DAY. ACQUAH’S HALL.............................................................................................................27
33. EXT DAY. STREET..........................................................................................................................27

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34. EXT DAY. STREET..........................................................................................................................28
35. INT DAY. AMINA AT ALHAJI BINTU’S COMPOUND.......................................................................28
36. EXT DAY. MAAME TIWAA’S COMPOUND.....................................................................................29
37. EXT DAY. STREET..........................................................................................................................30
38. EXT DAY. MAAME TIWAA’S COMPOUND.....................................................................................30
39. EXT DAY. AMINA AT ALHAJI BINTU’S COMPOUND TO FRONTSIDE...............................................31
40. EXT NIGHT. BOZANGA AT THE SHRINE OF PLUSHIPLUTTU..........................................................31
41. INT NIGHT. ODURO’S HALL...........................................................................................................32
42. EXT DAY. OFORI’S HOUSE – COMPOUND.....................................................................................32
43. EXT DAY. STREET..........................................................................................................................33
44. EXT DAY. OUTSKIRTS OF VILLAGE................................................................................................33
45. INT DAY. CLASSROOM..................................................................................................................34
46. EXT DAY. SCHOOL COMPOUND....................................................................................................34
47. INT DAY. CLASSROOM..................................................................................................................34
48. EXT DAY. CHIEF’S PALACE.............................................................................................................35
49. INT DAY. ACQUAH’S HALL.............................................................................................................36
50. EXT DAY. BUSH FEEDER ROAD......................................................................................................36
51. EXT DAY. VILLAGE MARKET..........................................................................................................36
52. EXT DAY. IN FRONT OF ACQUAH’S HOUSE...................................................................................37
53. EXT DAY. ACQUAH’S COMPOUND................................................................................................37
54. EXT DAY. VILLAGE STREETS...........................................................................................................38
55. EXT DAY. OUTSIDE VILLAGE..........................................................................................................38
56. EXT DAY. VILLAGE SQUARE...........................................................................................................39
57. INT DAY. DRINKING BAR...............................................................................................................40
58. EXT NIGHT. ACQUAH’S COMPOUND............................................................................................41
59. INT NIGHT. ACQUAH’S BEDROOM................................................................................................41
60. MONTAGE....................................................................................................................................41
61. INT NIGHT. CHURCH HALL............................................................................................................42
62. EXT NIGHT. ISOLATED CORNER....................................................................................................42
63. EXT NIGHT. FORECOURT OF CHURCH BUILDING..........................................................................42
64. MONTAGE DAY (POLLING STATION).............................................................................................43
65. EXT NIGHT. POLLING STATION.....................................................................................................43
66. EXT NIGHT. STREET.......................................................................................................................44
67. INT NIGHT. ACQUAH’S HALL.........................................................................................................44
68. EXT NIGHT. BOZANGA AT THE FETISH SHRINE.............................................................................44
END

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 SYNOPSIS

THE RACE FOR CONGRESS MEMBER OF

KANTANKAKROM IS BECOMING BRUTAL, AS
BOZANGA (THOUGH NOT ORIGINALLY FROM
KANTANKAKROM, HE HAS DECIDED TO RUN)
BATTANGA AND HIS BOYS ADOPT “TAKASHI”
TACTICS, ACQUAH DASHES OUT MONEY TO ALL
AND SUNDRY TO GET THEM TO VOTE FOR HIM.
GYASI THE PSEUDO PASTOR GOES FROM
CHURCH TO CHURCH PREACHING UNITY AS PART
OF HIS CAMPAIGN AND ODURO STARTS TO
REGRET JOINING IN THE FIRST PLACE DUE TO
THE ORDEAL HE HAS TO SUFFER FROM BOZANGA
BATTANGA. MEANWHILE THE POPULAR OFORI;
THE VILLAGE DRUNK AND JESTER IS OPTIMISTIC
OF WINNING WITH HIS TRULY WEIRD CAMPAIGN
STRATEGY (GOING ROUND THE VILLAGE TO
POUND FUFU FOR PEOPLE’S VOTES) CAN HIS
STRATEGY, BE EXECUTED? WILL IT SUCCEED?
WHAT WILL BE THE OUTCOME OF THIS
ELECTION? WHO WILL EMERGE THE FINAL
WINNER? HOW WILL THE PEOPLE VOTE? FOR
ANSWERS TO THESE QUESTIONS AND MORE,
SIT BACK AND ENJOY THIS THOUGHT
PROVOKING, HILARIOUS AND SUSPENSE FILLED
TRAGI-COMEDY.

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 EXT DAY. OPENING SCENE
A Funeral. All the cast are shown seated in various positions. Acquah, Gyasi, Oduro, Ofori,
Bozanga Battanga and his boys, etc. Picture of the deceased (Kwadwo Baah Wiredu) shown.
Kete, Adowa, Horns, Drumming etc. Lamentation and tears from the close family members and
public

1. INT DAY. DISTRICT LEVEL MEETING OF THE APP IN A ROOM

The leaders of the APP have met to discuss the succession. Many are worried and engaged in
heated discussion.
ODURO
We have been severely troubled by the death of this man. We do we do now? Who is going to
replace him?

ACQUAH
Before we talk about that, let me say that I think the time has come for change! After all, he held the
seat for 16 years. His record was good, but I think we need a new direction!

ODURO
What new direction is that? Why change a successful formula? Our party has held the seat for all
these years after all, why change now?

ACQUAH
That is my point. The people are fed up with the same old policies. I think they want to see
something new and different.

ODURO
Nonsense, who told you that? Don’t you know that the old ways are always best? When did you
enter politics anyway? I have been around for at least the last 12 years. I say we keep the same
policies and change nothing. You new party members are always in a hurry to change things!

ACQUAH
Well, let us not argue. New member or old, I think you will agree that the important thing is that our
party wins………….

FADE AWAY------- AS DISCUSSION CONTINUES

2. EXT DAY. MARKET

Market women are busily selling their wares when Acquah arrives, holding an exercise book and
pen. He goes round to the sellers to help him file his nominations.

MAAME TIWAA
What is the name writing for? Are we going to be given loans by the Government?

ACQUAH
Errhh, not exactly. You see, I’m actually vying to be the next Congress member and I need some
people to second me before I’m given the chance.

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 ACHIAA
Oh! That’s nice. After all we need a change. Hope you’ll make things better for us.

ACQUAH
Don’t worry; I’m the right man for you. I will make sure all your dreams come true.

MAAME TIWAA
Okay, write my name.

ACHIAA
And mine too.

Acquah goes round to write names of those who second him. He leaves and the women begin to
talk.
ACHIAA
Do you think he’s worth the stress? This man who brags as if he owns Heaven? I wonder what he
will do if he finally wins power.

TIWAA
Whatever you think he brags about, he has it. He is very, very, wealthy and lacks nothing. But now
he needs our votes. So this is our time to prove our worth too. Don’t worry, we will squeeze him
hard and suck him dry.

ACHIAA
I guess you are right. Plantain oo! Plantain (back to business)

CUT

3. EXT NIGHT. SOMEWHERE IN THE BUSH:

A secret meeting of the NPD a party in opposition

BOZANGA
Who do these fucking people think they are? What do they mean by telling me that I do not qualify
to be Congressman. After all, was I not born here? Did I not go to school here? Have I not been
here for more than 20 years?

ALL THE MOB

Cries of:- Shiege, Balawu, Bondeko, Danduruwaka, Sorme, etc, etc, etc.

ABONGO
So Boss, what are we going to do about it? Are we going to sit down and let this happen?

BOZANGA
Tswiaa! Tofiakwa! Nooo! We will seize power BY ANY MEANS NECESSARY!

KABRUTU
So Boss, what are you saying?

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 BOZANGA
I say By FIRE, By LIES, By INTIMIDATION, By BEATINGS, By JUJU and MURDER, we will seize
power from these people. We will show these people where the real power lies!

ABONGO
Then Boss, that man ODURO, he is the APP candidate and the people know him, so what should
we…………….

BOZANGA (cuts in)

Ooooo! You too! He is the APP candidate and so what? I mean are you a monkey? Do I have to
explain everything to you? Beat him, disgrace him, lie about him, make his life Hell! Make sure
that by election time no one in this area will even want to vote for him! DO YOU UNDERSTAND
ME NOW???

ALL THE MOB

YES BOSS!

CUT

4. INT DAY. ACQUAH’S COMPOUND

Acquah is drafting some letters as Dansoaa his daughter comes out of the room wearing a school
uniform and holding her bag. She calls for her father’s attention to let him know that she’s ready
for school.

DANSOAA
Daddy I’m ready, I’m running late. I have to go now.

ACQUAH
Okay, safe journey. Try to study hard.

DANSOAA
But dad, what of the textbooks I told you about? You promised to give me money before I go.

ACQUAH
Oooo!, What book? Answer me, what books? Don’t bother me! Haven’t I told you that I need all
my money for my campaign? When I win, won’t you be happy to be the daughter of a
Congressman? Listen, Don’t come between me and my desire! I can afford all the books you want
after the election. Now go away! I’ve paid your fees and that’s enough.

DANSOAA
But daddy, I have a promotional exam to write. How do you expect me to pass?

ACQUAH
The same way I passed as the son of a poor farmer with no food to eat. Now go away! I’m busy.
Stop disturbing me!

Dansoaa angrily exits the room.

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 ACQUAH (to himself)
Nonsense! Instead of borrowing someone’s book to study, you want me to buy every stupid little
thing. Foolishness! You want to go to Heaven but you don’t want to die.

5. EXT DAY. UNDER A TREE

Afram is lying under a tree sleeping. He looks very hungry. Baffour goes to him munching a cob
of corn. He wakes him up. Afram yawns and immediately holds the tip of the corn and breaks off
a piece, he starts to chew.
AFRAM
Jack, it’s good you brought this corn, otherwise my grave was near.

BAFFOUR
Yeah, I saw from the way you were sleeping that your stomach was empty. But who do you blame;
for that, me? I have been telling you that lying idle won’t help. These politicians cannot help us
either. Times are very hard and only those who force will get what they will eat at the end of the
day.

AFRAM
Jack, I understand, but it looks as if my kind of job is not in this village. I’m supposed to be in a
place like America, Spain, England, Jamaica; or even ……

BAFFOUR (cuts in)

Wait! What are you doing in Jamaica? Why, do you want to go and grow weed?

AFRAM
Seriously, I have to go back to the city. I must leave this God forsaken village.

BAFFOUR
Yes! You will leave but before you do, you will definitely eat so join me in my farm. That’s what I
mean. Escort me to Agya Asomani’s house to collect my ladder.

Afram follows him; they continue talking still chewing the corn.

6. EXT DAY. ACQUAH’S COMPOUND

Acquah enters the house from outside and Alice his wife charges on him.

ALICE
Stop there, Acquah I say stop there. What right have you to refuse granting my daughter’s wish?
Answer me.

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 ACQUAH
What do you mean?

ALICE (copying and imitating him)

What do I mean? What do I mean? What I mean is, who do you expect to buy books for your only
daughter’s education? Give me the money or else you are not entering that room.

ACQUAH
Look, You are not serious!? (He tries to pass by her, but she pushes him back). Hey, You too what
is your problem? Don’t try my anger or you will regret it do you hear? Leave me to enter in peace.

ALICE (still obstructing him)

Not without the money. She has to go to school now. So you are not going anywhere until I get that
money

Acquah tries to push her away, but she holds his hand and drags him onto the floor. He tries to
push her off, almost exposing her large breasts. She stays on him, riding him and keeping him
down and digs her hand into his pocket and brings out all the money on him. Acquah lies down
moaning and ashamed to get up. He complains of waist pain but Alice ignores him, leaves him
and heads into the room with the money.

CUT

7. INT DAY. PRIVATE MEETING OF SELECTED APP MEMBERS

Disagreements are arising in the APP primarily between ODURO and ACQUAH over who should
be the next leader and the next Congressman.

ACQUAH
Look here Oduro, I am telling you plainly, I will not finance your campaign.

ODURO
What do you mean?

ACQUAH
I mean that for quite a while, I have single-handedly financed almost all the campaigns of Party
members in this area, it is time for you to also reciprocate and support me.

ODURO
Support you for what? Are you a candidate?

ACQUAH
I intend to be. It is time for me to also come forward. After all, I have supported this party now for
a very long time. It is now my turn. I want my reward.

ODURO
You must be joking! I am the senior party member, I am the most experienced and the people know
me. And in any case what do you know about Leadership? What do you know about governance?
The fact that you have lots of money doesn’t mean that you know anything about leading people!

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 ACQUAH
Errhh! Is that so?! Let me tell you that one thing that I do know! My money is not going to be
financing you or your campaign. At least If I don’t know about leading, then I do know how to keep
my money in my pocket.

ODURO
So keep your money in your pocket! You think everything in this world is money!, money!, money!
I have the entire district machinery. The foot-soldiers, the organizers and the secretaries. We will
see how you organize your campaign without any party support.

ACQUAH
I see, that is what you are now telling me after all these years? You Ingrate. You selfish snake!
Instead of at least giving me my chance, listen to what you are saying. Okay, no problem. We will
also see how you will pay for your all organizers and all the foot-soldiers.

Both exit angrily.

8. INT DAY. CHURCH HALL

Gyasi is seated in a congregation as Pastor Wiafe reads out announcements.

PASTOR WIAFE
And now my people, we have in our midst one of the prominent believers in this village, a special
guest in the person of Mr. Gyasi Asiedu. So without wasting time, let us find out from him why he
decided to fellowship with us today rather than “Christ’s Parliament” where he usually worships.

GYASI
Praise the Lord (Congregation Responds: Hallelujah!). People, it is a thing of joy to be in the
midst of the people of the Lord. My mission for joining you today is simple. I want all of us
Christians in the village to see each other as one. I believe that by doing so we can impact on the
unbelievers. Separation in the House of God will only make those who don’t believe, mock us
Christians. This is why I have decided to join the race for Congressman. It is time for the principles
of the Lord to be brought to all our people and I will use this platform to initiate my plan. People,
they say a journey of one thousand miles begins with a step. So I have taken the step from this
church and will continue further.

Praise the Lord, Hallelujah! All The congregation applauds him loudly.

PASTOR WIAFE
Amen! That is a good motive. May the Lord prosper you! A true Christian will bring much
blessings to the people and we pray that God will make it fruitful. Hallelujah! Amen!

DISSOLVE

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9. EXT DAY. VILLAGE SQUARE
All the candidates are on stage, at a gathering of all the villagers. This is the first major village
gathering of these elections. The candidates answer questions in turn from the crowd.

BAFFOUR
My question goes to Agya Oduro. I want to know, what you will do to stop crime if you are given
the chance?

ODURO
Youngman, Thank you. In fact, I cannot single-handedly stop crime in this locality. But some of
you know I served in the Police force; so I will use my connections to make sure we have a Police
Station and I will also educate the youth about the dangers associated with crime.

ACHIAA
Can Acquah answer this question please? I want to know what he will do to improve education if he
wins, since I hear he doesn’t even see any reason to buy textbooks for his own daughter.

ACQUAH (getting very angry)

What are you telling me? Who are you? Are you the one who takes care of my family for me? (He
moves forward trying to descend on her but those around prevent him). No, leave me, leave me, let
me show her some sense. Can you afford three square meals a day? Idiot!

ACHIAA
Leave him, what can he do?

The whole arena is filled with commotion.

10. EXT DAY. VILLAGE SQUARE

Boys are playing ‘draft’ as Acquah approaches. They suddenly stop the game and turn their
attention to him. Honourable, honourable they shout.

ACQUAH
How are you all? (He digs into his pocket and throws money at them)

ALL
We’re alright; Sir.
They shout and rush on the money as it lands. Some get more, others get less.

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11. EXT DAY. ODURO’S FARM
Oduro is on his farm checking his Maize and Cassava and weeding where necessary

ODURO (talking to himself)

Eih! Farming is not easy oo. I feel sympathy for all my brother farmers!
I have been here since 4 0’clock. Look at me sweating like a pig while that rich idiot goes about
simply flashing his cash. He thinks money can buy everything, but the people will show him. The
people love me and I know the people will not fail me after all these years. Though I must admit, I
am missing the money and all the……………………...

Enter ABONGO, KABRUTU and SOME OTHERS (interrupting ODURO’S soliloquy)

ABONGO
Honourable! We have been sent to deliver you a friendly message.

ODURO
What message is that, and what are you doing here? You are no friends of mine, so go away, leave!

KABRUTU
Shut up, you fucking old chicken, you do not tell us what to do!, we will leave when the message has
been delivered!

ODURO (moving away)

Look here, don’t you fools have any dogs and goats to go and steal? I am a busy productive citizen
and I don’t have time for dirty, murderous thugs like you, so…………

ABONGO, KABRUTU and the OTHERS (interrupt, and grab ODURO shaking him)

KABRUTU
Shut up, old bastard!, your mother is a dog thief not me!

ABONGO
Meanwhile, The message is that you people have held power for long enough in this area, so drop
out of this race or face the consequences!

ODURO (struggling)
Shweeiaa!, What consequences are those! Leave me!, leave me!, I am a former police officer, do you
think I am afraid of you? Or of anyone? Leave me!

ABONGO
You are not afraid eh? OK, We shall see. ANYWAY HERE ARE SOME OF THE
CONSEQUENCES!

ABONGO, KABRUTU and OTHERS (start severely beating ODURO)

ODURO
Agyei! Ahh! Agyei!! Help! Help! they are beating me! Animals!, Thieves!, Beasts! Help! Help!
Agyei! Heeellllllppp!!!!!!

FADE

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12. EXT DAY. CHIEF’S PALACE
Chief and elders are seated with Acquah. Before them is a table completely filled with assorted
drinks prepared food and huge bundles of money.

ACQUAH
So Nana; as I was saying, this is just the tip of the iceberg. Much more of this will visit this palace
when you help me to win the seat. I will do all in my capacity to bring enormous development into
this village.

NANA
Okyeame; let Mr. Acquah understand that we accept his gift in good faith and still expect what he
has promised. Though we can’t publicly order that everyone should vote for him, people come to
the Palace every now and then, so we will find a wise way of telling them that he’s our choice. So he
shouldn’t worry. All he has to do is to continue his good works and stay out of trouble.

OKYEAME
Mr. Acquah, I hope you have heard Nana, right?

ACQUAH
Thank you; Nana and all of you elders. I will do my best not to disappoint you. I guess I’ll be going
now, please.

OKYEAME
Nana, he is asking for permission to leave.

NANA
He can do so.

ACQUAH
Thank you. (He leaves)
Elders begin to argue.
ELDER 1
Whew!, Look at all that cash! And look at this drink (pointing to one of the drinks) it must be
expensive. It is a foreign drink.

ELDER2
It’s a lie, it is produced locally. You are not educated can’t you see the label?

15
13. EXT DAY. VILLAGE MARKET
Achiaa is yelling to draw the attention of her customers. She suddenly turns her attention to
Tiwaa.
ACHIAA
Eno, have you heard the latest? Have you heard that Acquah is throwing a party for widows?

TIWAA
What? What have widows got to do with his Congress ambitions?

ACHIAA
Hmm, I hear it is part of his campaign. Through this method he hopes to win the votes of all the
widows who live in the area and who attend the party.

TIWAA
Really! Then I guess the next group of people he will call will be the disabled, the orphans, the
witches, then the ghosts; and so on. He really has work to do.

ACHIAA
Yet, in spite of all this, he can’t buy common textbook for his daughter. He thinks he can fool us.
There are only a few people he can fool.

CUT

14. EXT DAY. POLLING STATION

People gather to look at the list of candidates that has just been posted at the polling station. It
has the names, pictures and other personal data of the candidates in print. They begin to argue
about whose picture is nicest.

DISSOLVE

15. MONTAGE
BOZANGA TALKING TO PEOPLE ONE ON ONE ON THE STREET.
GYASI ADDRESSING A SMALL GROUP OF PEOPLE.
OFORI IN A BAR DRINKING HEAVILY
ACQUAH GIVING MONEY TO EVERYONE HE MEETS.
ODURO IN BANDAGES LYING IN A ROOM

DISSOLVE

16
16. EXT DAY. APP MEMBERS MEET AT ODURO’S COMPOUND
The APP is very angry over what happened to Oduro. They meet to try to decide what to do

BONSU
What is all this? These foreigners come to our area, we welcome them with open arms and now they
want to take over and rule us!

GILBERT
That is not even the worst part. They are now using violence to campaign. Look at what they have
done to Chairman Oduro. We have not even been able to tell Nana and all the people what really
happened in the interests of maintaining peace in the area.

AFRIFA (shouting)(others also shouting)

What peace! Always peace!, With you people. There is a time for peace and a time for War. If we
don’t fight them ‘Boot for boot’ they will think we are afraid and weak and carry on with their
nonsense. We must show these fucking, dirty foreigners that we are also men and we will not stand
any more shit. Is my name not Okatatyie Kwabena Afrifa? If they want war, let us give them war!!

BONSU (also shouting)

As for you, everything is fighting. Everything is war! Can’t you use your mind? If they are animals
must we also sink to their level? After all what is ever resolved by force? Should we not rather
show them that we are more advanced than they are? What is to be gained by fi…………………..

Acquah Enters Interrupting Bonsu

ACQUAH
Gentlemen, is what happened true? Where is he?

BONSU
It is true. He is still in his room recuperating.

ACQUAH
I see. I tried to warn him to stand down this time, but he wouldn’t listen.

GILBERT
So what do we do now? How are we going to avenge this brutal beating?!

ACQUAH
Well, that is for you to decide. As for me I have taken certain decisions. From now on,
1. I will protect myself
and
2. I have decided to run as an independent candidate.
This party stuff is just bringing me too much heat and pressure!

All
Ah! Ah! Acquah, Why! Why! and at a time like this. Where is your loyalty! Don’t you want to be
the APP candidate so we can all support you?

ACQUAH
No, I’m sorry gentlemen but my decision is final!

17
Acquah Leaves

GILBERT
Shieee! What a selfish and power greedy man. Imagine going solo and leaving us at a time like this
eh!!! As for human beings!????

CUT

17. INT NIGHT. DRINKING BAR

Baffour, Afram and others are in a bar drinking. They debate the elections.

AFRAM
This Congress election has become the talk of town. The candidates are getting popular day by day.
I wish I contested.

BAFFOUR
See who is talking. You can’t even feed your own self let alone getting money to campaign for
elections.

AFRAM
Master, Don’t try to underestimate me. I could have sought for sponsorship from the United Nations
or other NGO’S. What do you know about politics?

BAFFOUR
Jack, don’t try to throw dust into my eyes. What has UN got to do with this village politics? Over
ambition syndrome that is your disease. But seriously Afram, why did they slate the election for 1st
January?

AFRAM
Maybe they want the winner to start his tenure from the start of the year.

BAFFOUR (Carries his drink and takes a sip)

Well, 1st or 15th, ours is to go out there and vote for the best man to make our lives better.

AFRAM
Exactly! So why should we worry about it!

FADE

18
18. EXT NIGHT. IN THE BUSH
Bozanga and the NPD boys are meeting to assess their strategy so far, and the next moves

BOZANGA
That was a highly successful operation. The word on the street is that the Old Chicken has been
seriously scared. He is even considering quitting, Good Job Boys!

ABONGO
So Boss what now!?

BOZANGA
Now it is time for phase 2. You know, that man Acquah and his money. They are starting to get on
my nerves.

KABRUTU
Boss, So More of the same? Should we pay him a visit next?

BOZANGA
No, no, not at all. This time we must use a different approach, we don’t want our hands to be
revealed too clearly now, do we? Besides, now they will be on guard. In fact, I have heard that this
Acquah has a big sweet tooth, so let us give him some sugar to eat. Anyway, don’t worry boys as I
have set things in motion…….
(Laughs wickedly He! He! He! He! He!)

DISSOLVE

19. INT NIGHT. GYASI’S HALL

Gyasi and his wife Nyarkoaa with their kids are having a joint family devotion before they sleep.
Isaac the first born is asked to finalise the prayer.

ISAAC
Father in heaven, we thank you. We thank you for taking good care of us. As we go to sleep, let
your Angels guide and protect us. I pray that you help Daddy to be the Congressman; in a peaceful
election. Thank you for answering our prayer. Amen!

ALL
Amen!

GYASI
That was good; my boy. You are really learning. Now, you should go straight to bed, so as to wake
up early for school. Goodnight.

KIDS
Goodnight Daddy, goodnight Mummy. (They disperse)

CUT

19
20. EXT DAY. ACQUAH’S COMPOUND
Akua and Serwaa visit Dansoaa. She is washing clothes as her mother sweeps the compound.
Serwaa immediately collects the broom from Alice and starts to sweep exposing some of her “vital
areas”. Acquah who is reading a newspaper in a corner of the compound steals glances at her.
He begins to stare and to give the picture his full attention. Alice almost catches him staring but
he acts fast.

ACQUAH (covering his face with the newspaper)

Dansoaa, get me some water to drink.

His continues to cover his face with the newspaper as Dansoaa stops washing and enters the
room.

21. EXT DAY. PALM WINE BASE

Ofori is seated among other men drinking palm wine. He calls to them asking that they should
vote for him.
OFORI
My people, our ancestors say we drink together to share ideas. You all know I’ve contested for the
Congress membership; I need all your support. I need you to convince your families and vote
massively for me.

KOOFIE
Have you finished? Clap for yourself because that was a nice speech you delivered. Listen to me; go
back to whoever told you to join the race that he is the greatest fool. You and I know you are not
anywhere near the past Congressman in anyway, so how can you better things after him.

KWAKYE
Or is it popularity you want?

KOOFIE
What popularity? Who is popular in this community than Ofori who has slept in almost all the
gutters around? This is where you belong; Ofori. Apply for (P.W.C); Palm Wine Chairman and we
will declare you unopposed rather than building castles in the air. No single vote for you, not even
your wife. So stop deceiving yourself. When big men like Acquah are paying big sums soliciting for
our votes, you also want to disturb us.

OFORI
It’s all good. I never knew you guys are so envious of me. The way you answered me shows that
you’ve planned this already. Asor, how much do I owe you? Add all my arrears. (Gets up)

ASOR (Counting her fingers)

It will be two cedis, forty pesewas. Ofori digs into his pocket, removes a five cedi note and gives it
to Asor. Asor gives him his change.

KWAKYE
Has he gone for a Bank loan or is it armed robbery? (Laughs loudly)

20
 KOOFIE
Ofori, why won’t you pay for our drinks too? After all you need our votes. (Laughs loudly)
Ofori ignores them and goes.

KWAKYE
Honourable! Honourable Ofori! Come back; let’s go together. (Laughs loudly)

FADE

22. EXT DAY. VILLAGE MARKET

Alice gets to the market holding her basket. All the sellers call for her to buy from them. She
passes by where Nyarkoaa is selling.

NYARKOAA
Ei, Auntie Alice, will you like to buy something?

ALICE (Looks at her from bottom to top and back down again)
And who says I want to buy from a nonentity like you? You think you can talk to me, just because
your CHRIFE husband thinks he can compare himself to my husband? Look here, the next time you
open that gutter to talk to me again, you will see my other side.

NYARKOAA
What is wrong? I only asked if you will buy something. Is there something wrong with that?

ALICE
See, you are still talking when I’m talking.

She takes off her headband and ties it around her waist; she moves closer to Nyarkoaa trying to
hit her but Achiaa rushes there and holds her. She turns the fight to Achiaa.

ALICE
How dare you touch me with those filthy hands of yours?

ACHIAA
Oh Shut up. Whose hands are filthy? Why do you go about making trouble? Or do you think I’m
Acquah your husband that you can manipulate and beat anyhow? Don’t try me.

Alice is about to pounce on her when Okyeame and some young men come to separate them.
They continue exchanging words.

21
23. EXT DAY. LONELY PATH
Okyeame walks into the shot. He stands suddenly; and speaks to himself.

OKYEAME
Ah! What have I done? Separating a fight; where I could have summoned them to the Palace? At
least, the house would have been blessed with a sheep or two. Anyway, that woman; Nyarkoaa is a
peace loving person. It won’t be fair; for her sake. He continues his walk.

FADE

24. INT DAY. CHURCH OFFICE

Pastor Wiafe is seated in his office reading a letter. Elder Asare comes in and he is offered a seat.

PASTOR WIAFE
You were almost late.

ASARE
Sorry, I had a visitor just as I was leaving.

WIAFE
Oh that’s okay. I just received a letter from the Local Council of Churches. (L.C.C.) that on the
eve of New Year, we will have a joint service. Wouldn’t that be nice?

ASARE
Yeah! I heard it in town but I thought it was a mere rumour.

WIAFE
It’s not a rumour, its true and it boils down to what Gyasi intends to do for us to see each other as
brothers and sisters even though we belong to different churches.

ASARE
It’s not a bad idea, I pray he wins the elections and make the community also united.

WIAFE
Amen! Now to the agenda of the day………………

22
24. INT DAY. ACQUAH’S HALL
Acquah is seated with his legs crossed. Seated opposite him is Afram.

ACQUAH
Youngman, I called you for two reasons. First of all, I have seen you wasting your life in this
village, walking about aimlessly and with nothing to do. Secondly, since this Congress race is now
becoming dangerous, I’ve decided to employ you as my bodyguard and I will pay you handsomely.

AFRAM
Thank you, Sir. I’m very grateful. (He kneels down to thank him).

ACQUAH
No need, no need. You are starting work tomorrow so be a good boy.

AFRAM
Thank you, sir. I will.

He is about to leave when Alice comes in to serve him food. He wolfs the food down as if he has
not eaten for days.

25. INT DAY. ODURO’S HALL

Oduro is somewhat recovered though he is not at full strength after the beating. He has removed
the bandages and is hosting Ofori in his hall and he goes straight to his reason for inviting him.

ODURO
Err, Ofori, there’s something I’ve noticed and I believe you also know it. It looks like the two of us
are being dominated by Acquah, Gyasi and that foul Bozanga. So I called to ask you to ally with
me, so that we can both add up our support to beat them all. What do you say?

OFORI
You know you do not seem well. I heard that you fell down some stairs in your house. I hope you
are ok. Anyway, you are not far from right but the question is who amongst us will be the Congress
member?

ODURO
Errh! I guess you didn’t understand me. What I mean is, dissolve your candidacy and join forces
with me, with all your supporters. So that you can be something like a running mate while I remain
in the race.

OFORI
What! What are you talking? Oduro, you are an idiot. In fact, you are a fool to call me and tell me
this nonsense. Do I look like someone who is afraid to lose this election? You are afraid of Acquah
and Gyasi; not me. So start thinking of coming to join me and not the other way round. Nonsense!

He exits the hall and slams the door behind him; Oduro opens his mouth not believing what he
just heard.

DISSOLVE

23
26. EXT DAY. STREET
Acquah is walking on the street with Afram following him with a long face (frowning). They
meet Achiaa and she ignores them and passes them by. Acquah turns and calls her.

ACQUAH
Hey, Have you lost your manners? How could you pass by me without greeting?

ACHIAA
Agya Acquah! Not this morning. I know you and your wife go about looking for trouble. But spare
me this time, please.

ACQUAH
Thanks for the compliment. Trouble is my English name. So now listen, that plot of land at the back
of the Presby Church, I hear you own it.

ACHIAA
Yes!, So what about it?

ACQUAH
Not anymore. I want to use the land for a poultry farm. So find time and come home for us to
negotiate for the price else if I win the election, I will take it by force.

ACHIAA
You are a joker. You think I’m one of the people you can molest and get away with it? Just try me;
the whole of this village will turn upside down. Nonsense!

Achiaa leaves them without looking back. Acquah and Afram stand for a while, and continue
their walk.

27. INT DAY. ALHAJI HALIDU BINTU’S COMPOUND

Bozanga Battanga has come to visit Alhaji Bintu, an old associate of his father’s. Alhaji is not
expecting him so the visit comes as a surprise.

BOZANGA (calling out)

Salaam Aleikum! Salaam Aleikum!.

ALHAJI HALIDU
Wa Aleikum Wa Salaam!

BOZANGA
Alhaji, How are you?

ALHAJI HALIDU
Akwei Allah! Is that small Bozanga? Now grown into this huge giant? How are you, how are you?
(Laughs and shakes him vigorously by the hand).

24
 BOZANGA
Quite well, Alhaji

ALHAJI HALIDU
Let me offer you some kola and water to drink. (calls out) Yussif, Yussif, bring water for our
important guest. A congressman candidate, no less. So Mr. Congressman what brings you here after
so long a time? I have not seen you in years.

BOZANGA
I know, I have been under a lot of pressure, especially with this Congressman business. No time to
do anything.

ALHAJI HALIDU
Is that so?

BOZANGA
Yes. Anyway, the reason I am here is that I need a very special favour. By the way how is Amina?

ALHAJI HALIDU
My daughter?, She is well. She has grown a lot and is quite a woman now. Why do you ask?

BOZANGA
Oh really, (Smiles)………………..

FADES OUT AS DISCUSSION COTINUES

CUT

28. INT NIGHT. GYASI’S BEDROOM

Gyasi and his wife Nyarkoaa are in bed. They start to talk about Acquah and how he has
concluded he is winning the election.

GYASI
He is just doing the opposite of what I intend to introduce into this community. Ordering all the
people to worship him as if he is a God, I wish he would understand that, that will not help.

NYARKOAA
What do you expect since the wife; who is supposed to correct him is a beast herself? The other time
she nearly beat me in the market when I harmlessly asked whether she will buy some of my wares.

GYASI
You don’t mean it. Well, I pray God touches their hearts and as for the election, my prayer is for
God’s will to be done. Goodnight. (He turns his back to his wife, covers himself and sleeps).

CUT

25
29. INT DAY. ALHAJI HALIDU BINTU’S COMPOUND
Alhaji Halidu is alone and very disturbed. He is clearly troubled and is walking up and down
speaking to himself. .

ALHAJI HALIDU
Shieeeee! What kind of Wahalla is this? What is all this trouble? Why here and why now? How
was I to know that the favour Alhaji Baaba Battanga did me all those years ago would require this
kind of Sacrifice?? And that Bozanga, knowing our culture, how can he ask me for an outrageous
thing like this? Oh Amina, what have I done? My only daughter how could I have gotten you into
trouble like this? Shieeeee! Where can I pass? What am I to do now?
He continues pacing up and down.

DISSOLVE

30. EXT DAY. MAAME TIWAA’S COMPOUND

Serwaa and Akua approach Maame Tiwaa’s compound. They are talking about how Acquah is
giving out money for votes.
AKUA
Who does he think he is?, Really, I wish he crosses my path. I will show him how to use money.

SERWAA
But his own daughter; Dansoaa our friend, passes through hell before getting money for her fees.

AKUA
You don’t mean it. Stingy inside, generous outside…..

31. EXT DAY. OUTSIDE: CLOSE TO ALHAJI HALIDU BINTU’S COMPOUND

Amina descends from a bus and is met by Abongo. The two walk together and engage in a heated
discussion with Amina shaking her head and wildly waving her arms! Abongo leaves and Amina
walks slowly and sadly home. Alhaji Halidu is in front of the house as she arrives.

AMINA
Father! Ah! How could you do this to me? Eh! How?

ALHAJI HALIDU
My daughter, I have no choice. Bozanga has called in a old, old favour and I have no option but to
comply. My daughter what else can I do, you know how we regard matters of honour and
obligation.

AMINA
But father how can you use your own daughter to satisfy this shameful obligation. This is
disgraceful. It is beneath me. Why would you agree to disgrace me this way? Can’t he find
someone else?

26
 ALHAJI HALIDU
My daughter, I am fully aware. I am saddened and ashamed myself. I have lived as a respected
member of this community for a long time and now this. You can refuse. But if you do so I have no
more honour.

AMINA
Oh Dad, how can I refuse knowing your honour is at stake? Why? Why? Why me?
(weeps )

DISSOLVE

32. INT DAY. ACQUAH’S HALL

Acquah is comfortably seated with Agyei and Kodua who handle his campaign.

ACQUAH
Guys, I called you here because the election is getting near. It is therefore time to map out our last
strategies. Agyei, I’m assigning you to monitor Gyasi’s strategies and help find an antidote to them.
Kodua, you will find a way to enter every gathering and find out what they say about me concerning
the election. I have spent so much money on the people it is time to know whether it’s been fruitful
or a waste. I hope both of you are equal to the task?

BOTH
Yes sir!
They ask for permission and leave.

33. EXT DAY. STREET

Acquah is on the streets with his bodyguard walking like a king. He spots Amina from afar going
away from where he is.
ACQUAH (Points at Amina)
Wheoo! Afram, Who’s that girl? What a big behind!, What shapely legs!, What a small waist!
Whaaat! if I get this one I won’t spare it, (Expressing more signs of lust)

AFRAM
Who? I didn’t see her.

ACQUAH
What? You don’t mean it! Come on!, come on!, let’s go have a closer look at her. I must have her
for the continued success of my campaign. (Afram hides a smile as they go)

27
34. EXT DAY. STREET
Amina is walking alone on a path tossing stones here and there. Acquah and Afram get nearer
doubling their steps.
ACQUAH
Excuse me young lady. (Amina turns with panic). Oh don’t panic, don’t you know me?

AMINA
I know you sir, just that I didn’t see you coming.

ACQUAH
That’s how invisible I can be sometimes. I appear like wildfire, but don’t worry, this time I’m here
in peace. (He signals Afram to excuse him). May I know that sweet name of yours?

AMINA
My name is Amina.

ACQUAH
Ohoo! What a sweet name for a sweet, juicy, bodacious, girl. A student I suppose?

AMINA
Yes, I’m a student.

ACQUAH
That’s nice. Let me go straight to the point. I like you and I want you to be my mistress. I will make
sure you don’t lack anything. And I don’t even mind giving you scholarship to the university level
and beyond. So think about it, I’ll get back to you. Afram let’s go.

They leave Amina as she looks at Acquah with scorn. She stands to look at them for a while and
then continues her walk.

DISSOLVE

35. INT DAY. AMINA AT ALHAJI BINTU’S COMPOUND

Amina is holding a book when Afram approaches from the main entrance holding a carrier bag
full of things. He comes straight to Amina.

AFRAM
Hello Amina, how are you? My boss says I should give you this.

AMINA (Thinks for a while and then collects it)

Tell him I say Allah will replenish him.

AFRAM
Alright, (he turns to go and turns back). Ahaa! Amina, there’s something I want to tell you. You
see, I want you to forget about my boss and consider a healthy relationship with me. You know you
are a young woman full of life. You deserve an energetic Youngman like me to make you happy not
and old married man like my boss. Think about……

28
 AMINA(interrupting)
Hey, Hey, Stop there!. Let me ask you, do you even know what is going on? Do I look like a cheap
street-girl to you? Don’t you know this is a Muslim household? How dare you? Can you feed
yourself for one whole day? Do you even have a sleeping place? When men are talking, you open
this bloated mouth of yours to also tell me nonsense. Mark it somewhere I will tell your boss about
it.

AFRAM
No, no, I’m sorry. It hasn’t come to that. Please forgive me. (He kneels down in front of Amina).

AMINA
Come on, rise up and disappear. (He rises up and runs as fast as his legs can carry him. Amina
begins to laugh. She looks into the carrier bag and realises the things are very expensive). Wow!
Look at all this! So this man is as rich as they say he is! What am I to do with all this now? (She is
still admiring the things).

She enters her room.

CUT

36. EXT DAY. MAAME TIWAA’S COMPOUND

Maame Tiwaa is peeling cassava for the evening meal, as Ofori sits in front of her joking as
usual.
MAAME TIWAA
Ei Ofori, you will kill me with these plenty jokes of yours. By the way, I heard Oduro called you to
ally with him, why didn’t you agree? At least with both forces combined you could pull more votes.

OFORI
I know, but that idiot expressed power drunkenness. I asked him a simple question that who amongst
us would go for the slot and I was expecting him to give it to me since he brought the idea. I would
have then wholeheartedly given it back to him in the spirit of brotherhood. But he went straight
claiming to be the best and I wasn’t ready to be underestimated.

MAAME TIWAA
Ah I see, but you guys should try and come to a compromise so that you can overcome this money
sharing here and there.

OFORI
Who says I’m afraid of that. He can as well sell his house and give to charity. I have my own
campaign strategy. I have decided to go round the village and be pounding their Fufu for them in
turns. By so doing I will have more free time talking to them and even if at the end I don’t win the
election, I will grow fat. (Maame Tiwaa is in stitches). Why are you laughing? Anyway, you are the
first person I’ve told this, so I guess I will start with you. (Maame Tiwaa is still laughing). Let me
go and buy “diesel”. I shall return very soon.

MAAME TIWAA
Hey, don’t come and spoil my hand for me oo! (Ofori leaves, whiles Maame Tiwaa watches him
still laughing) Fufu - politician.

29
37. EXT DAY. STREET
Ofori is partially drunk and raining insults on anyone he meets. He meets Alice and begins to
provoke her.
OFORI
See how she looks. Thanks to chicken and excessive eating. (Alice stops). You and your husband
have suddenly turned generous, putting sand in the eyes of the villagers, simply because you want
power. That’s a lie, not when I’m alive. (Alice is getting furious, starting to gather her fists.
Asiamah; a young boy passes by and shouts; Honourable! Ofori replies, with a thumb in the air).
(He turns his attention back to Alice). You see, even the unborn children know I’m a winner
because of my popularity. As for you, it is better you start taking a picture of yourself now because
you and your husband will soon go bankrupt and you will begin to show skeletons. Nonsense, we
shall see how you’ll wear this sophisticated wig… trying to touch Alice’s hair but before his hand
gets there, Alice pushes him hard and he lands on the ground.
Ei, you want to fight me? Ei, you want to … (he tries to get up but Alice sits on him and starts
beating him from all angles). If I get up you are dead. I will beat the hell out of you. You wait for
me to get up. (He keeps bragging still struggling to get up as Alice continues beating him. People
start coming around but nobody dares separate the fight).

ALICE (frees him).

The next time, you cross my path; you will suffer more than this. (She leaves as some kids follow
her, “King Kong”, “King Kong”. Ofori manages to rise up with the rest of the people shouting
“Honourable, Honourable”).

OFORI (Shouting)
The next time we meet again, you better run. It’s because I’m drunk that’s why you think you’ve
beaten me. Nonsense!

He walks haphazardly towards his house.

38. EXT DAY. MAAME TIWAA’S COMPOUND

Maame Tiwaa is seated surrounded with mortar, pestle and a bowl full of boiled cassava and
plantain. She looks fed up with waiting. Asiamah enters the compound running from outside.

MAAME TIWAA
Did you see him? (To Asiamah)

ASIAMAH
Nana, I saw him fighting with Auntie Alice and from what I saw there’s no way he can come and
pound this Fufu. Auntie Alice sat on him and gave him strong “blows”.

MAAME TIWAA
You don’t mean it. What did he do to that devil? This woman is biting more than she can chew in
this village. Anyway Asiamah, come take the pestle, let’s pound it little by little.

30
39. EXT DAY. AMINA AT ALHAJI BINTU’S COMPOUND TO FRONTSIDE
Amina, comes out of a room, holding a mirror. She looks into it and styles her hair. Afram
approaches from the gate, holding a carrier bag. Amina spots him and suddenly drops the mirror
to go and meet him. She hugs Afram and plants a kiss on his cheek. She turns Afram back to the
main entrance. Those in the house do not see Afram. (CU OF BROKEN MIRROR) Amina
collects the parcel from Afram who is full of smiles.

AFRAM
Amina my love, I thank you for finally accepting my proposal. I promise to keep it discreet from my
boss and all the villagers.

AMINA
Who has accepted you? I knew you were stupid as your stupid self. Can’t you read danger when it
approaches? You saw people in my house and you still proceed to bring it. What picture are you
trying to paint? Look here, the next time you try that again, I will personally make sure you lose
your job.

AFRAM
I’m sorry, it’s just that when you hugged me, I felt a special breeze around me and……

AMINA
Will you stop that nonsense and disappear. (Afram goes, looking back now and then as Amina
enters the house).

CUT

40. EXT NIGHT. BOZANGA AT THE SHRINE OF PLUSHIPLUTTU

Bozanga has gone to consult a so-called fetish or local deity to see what he must do to win the
election

BOZANGA
Oh Great one, you know how long I have waited for this day. Now tell me, what must I do to win?
How can I completely defeat these weak southerners?

FETISH
Ogolo! You are truly fortunate that the APP is no longer a prayer-filled party. Otherwise nothing I
could have done would have helped your cause. You know that the sincere prayers of the righteous,
creates a solid barrier against my kind.

BOZANGA
So will I succeed?

31
 FETISH
Brrrr! Cata!, Cata! Ozagolo! Wulapumpi! Piaw! Piaw! Piaw! Kita! Kata! Shweeeee! (throws cow
bones on ground, shakes his rattle and makes signs in the air) Yes you will succeed. Take three
cows wrap them in APP colours and bury them alive. Bury one pregnant woman, one virgin and one
small boy. Wrap them all in the colours of the APP, bind the mouth of the virgin and collect her
tears, which you will use to clean your face and get sympathy from the voters. Pound the stomach of
the pregnant woman before you bury her, so you can smash the APP. Drink the blood from the neck
of the small boy before you bury him to make the APP weak and small. Do all these things over
four days when both the Moon and the Sun can be seen in the sky. Go now. Brrrr! Cata, Cata!
Ozagolo! Wulapumpi! Piaw! Piaw! Piaw! Kita! Kata! Shweeeee! (throws cow bones on ground,
shakes his rattle and makes signs in the air) ………

BOZANGA
Thank you O’ Great one, thank you, thank you

(Bozanga bows repeatedly and leaves walking backwards)

41. INT NIGHT. ODURO’S HALL

Oduro is seated and confused. He stands up and moves about the hall.

ODURO (V.O)
The election is days away and I still haven’t made any impact. I have put a lot into this campaign
but the crowd I’m pulling is nothing to write home about. I should have been on top form, but for
those NPD animals weakening me. No, it must stop. I must not give out any money for now. I must
rather plan well for the next election if necessary. I must.

CUT

42. EXT DAY. OFORI’S HOUSE – COMPOUND

Ofori is about to leave the house. His wife calls to him to wait. She gets to him and holds his
shirt.

ATAA
Go back there and put down money for house-keeping; else you are going no-where.

OFORI
Someone owes me. Let me rush and get the money, else I won’t meet him.

ATAA
Liar! Liar! Who owes you in this village? Give me the money else the whole village will hear of us.

OFORI
Oh! Stop that. You know the villagers are looking up to me for this election. There’s an insect
climbing your cloth. Ataa turns her attention to her cloth and Ofori takes the advantage to run.

32
 ATAA
Go, you will come back and meet me.

43. EXT DAY. STREET

Ofori walks along the street whistling. He branches into the main street from a corner and spots
Alice coming from afar. He immediately moves back and searches for a hiding place. Alice
comes to pass without noticing him. He tiptoes to make sure she is gone and runs to where he
was heading.

44. EXT DAY. OUTSKIRTS OF VILLAGE

Acquah is chatting with Amina with Afram standing apart with a frown on his face.

AMINA
So it’s not as if I’m trying to play pranks on you. I am rather trying to save you from yourself and I
also don’t want to incur the wrath of your wife.

ACQUAH
I’ve told you not to worry. I will take you to a guest house far from here.

AMINA
You don’t seem to understand. Walls have ears. Okay, let’s make it this way. I’ve been going to the
Local Primary School to study during the day. You know the schools are now on vacation. Let’s
meet there tomorrow at 3 0’clock. I will be waiting before you come.

ACQUAH
Are you sure that place is safe?

AMINA
I’m very sure. I’ve been there many times and nobody comes around. (Acquah digs into his pocket
and gives Amina some money. Amina looks around to make sure nobody is watching, collects the
money and thanks Acquah).

ACQUAH
No need, tomorrow then!

AMINA
Alright! Remember 3 0’clock. (They disperse).

CUT

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45. INT DAY. CLASSROOM
Amina is seated in a classroom looking at a book. Abongo and Kabrutu enter.

ABONGO
The time is almost up. He must be on his way coming. You stay there waiting, while we look for
somewhere to hide.

AMINA
I guess I must do what you say. (They exit the room and hide behind a nearby tree)

46. EXT DAY. SCHOOL COMPOUND

Acquah is seen approaching the school compound. He keeps looking round to make sure nobody
has seen him. He gets to the building looking round to see where to enter.

47. INT DAY. CLASSROOM

Acquah finally enters where Amina is. Amina rises up to meet him and hugs him.

ACQUAH
You kept your promise. I thought it was to be one of the 419 you girls do.

AMINA
I wish you had not come. Anyway, how could I have done that to you? You are not a bad man in
spite of what people say. (Acquah removes a bundle of money from his pocket and gives to Amina
as she rubs his ears with her finger). What is this for?

ACQUAH
Naughty girl! (Acquah starts kissing Amina. He starts hugging her close while kissing her. He
removes her top and she removes his shirt. He suddenly removes his trousers, throws them in the
corner and grabs her bottom pressing her to him. Abongo and Kabrutu and others suddenly enter
the room. Acquah is frightened to death as Amina looks sad.

ABONGO (Gathers Acquah’s clothes)

So Most Honourable Congressman, this is one of your campaign grounds eh? This is how you
strategise with your waist, Ha, Ha, Well, I guess the game is over. The whole village will see your
other side.

ACQUAH
No, no, it hasn’t come to that. Please, name your price. I promise to pay you handsomely, please.

ABONGO
You think you can bribe me. You can’t, the whole community must see what you do underground.
(To Amina) And you, a young woman, instead of you to read your books, you follow old men
around. Kabrutu, go out there and alert all the villagers to come. (Acquah goes on his knees
begging and pleading).

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 ACQUAH
Please, don’t do this to me. Look into the pocket of the trouser, there’s money. I will add more to it
this evening. (Abongo digs into the pocket and collects all the money. He throws the clothes at
Acquah. Acquah grabs them and quickly begins to dress).

ABONGO
Let me have the money by the close of the day else you will have yourself to blame. (To the boys)
Boys let’s go. (They leave)(Acquah tries to leave making sure no one has seen him)

AMINA
Are you leaving me here alone?

ACQUAH
What do you expect? Isn’t it your fault? I told you this place would not be safe. Now look what has
happened! To hell with you, witch. (He leaves as Amina shakes her head).

48. EXT DAY. CHIEF’S PALACE

Alice is summoned before the chief and elders for assaulting Ofori.

ELDER 1
So what we want to know is whether you are guilty or not?

ALICE
I’m not guilty and I can never be guilty. He caused it. I was on my way home when he met me,
hailing insults on me all in the name of being under the influence of alcohol. I tried my best to
control my anger until he tried to touch my hair. So elders, let me ask, would any of you be happy if
this yeye man met his wife on the streets and tried to play with her hair? Definitely not!. I therefore
don’t see why you should waste my precious time.

ELDER 2
What? Sacrilege!

NANA
Woman, I would have said I’m no more interested in this case. Ofori can take it to court if he so
desires. But I can’t sit down for my village to be taken over by people like you. I will therefore get to
the bottom of this. But for now, I’m not in a good mood. I shall call this case again. But before I do
woman, you will bring a healthy spotless sheep, two bottles of schnapps and one crate of eggs to
cleanse the stool for defiling it.

OKYEAME
Good speech Nana. Woman I’m sure you heard that. You bring those items before the gods strike
you dead. (Alice insolently leaves them as the elders and Ofori talk about her behaviour. The
chief is silent).

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49. INT DAY. ACQUAH’S HALL
Acquah is going through a report from Agyei and Kodua as the two men wait patiently for
Acquah’s comments.
ACQUAH
Ha! Ha! Haa! I love that statement. “All he knows is to preach, pray and make noise” (quoting
from the report).

AGYEI
That’s exactly what he does, sir.

ACQUAH
Nice one there. You guys did a good job, but don’t end it there. It’s not over until it’s over.

BOTH
We will do our best sir.

ACQUAH
Alright let me go inside and find you something to keep body and soul. (He rises up and heads
towards the bedroom. Kodua signals Agyei and they are full of smiles).

CUT

50. EXT DAY. BUSH FEEDER ROAD

Abongo and the boys are returning to base. They make fun of Acquah’s actions when they
caught him with Amina.
ABONGO(quoting Acquah)
“Please don’t do this to me. Look into the pocket of the trouser” Ha! Ha! Haa! (Laughing like a
mad man).

KABRUTU
He was frightened to death. He had two things to be afraid of; losing the election and also beatings
from his Tarzan wife. Ha! Ha! Haa!

ABONGO
We are not through with him yet. By the time he realises what we are up to, he will have gone
bankrupt. We are now a concrete barrier between him and his dream. Stupid woman chaser!

CUT

51. EXT DAY. VILLAGE MARKET

Tiwaa and Achiaa are selling their wares, gossiping as usual.

TIWAA
Achiaa, they say the campaign ends on Thursday and there will be a final forum. How true is that?

ACHIAA
I don’t know and I don’t want to know. To go waste my precious time to listen to their bluffs
whereas they can’t even buy books for their own children. (Casting insinuation)

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 TIWAA
Ei Eno! As for you and Acquah, I must investigate to know the cause. Whether its love or hatred.

ACHIAA
What love? The man irritates me because of his bossy attitude. Do you know some days back, I met
him and that aimless bodyguard of his? And all this man could tell me was to come to his house to
negotiate selling my land to him else he will forcefully take it from me when he wins the election.
And the cheek of it, he wants to use the land for a poultry farm.

TIWAA
You don’t mean it. Who does he think he is; God?

ACHIAA
I have told him to be careful around me else he will join his ancestors before me. (She attends to a
customer). How much are you buying?

52. EXT DAY. IN FRONT OF ACQUAH’S HOUSE

Acquah is about to enter his house when he is confronted by Abongo and the boys.

ABONGO
Most Honourable! It’s nice to see you again. Your boys are hungry again and you know it shouldn’t
be so. We are therefore here to renew the contract we have with you. Remember Thursday’s forum
is a nice platform to make or unmake any aspirant. Think about that.

ACQUAH
What do you guys take me for? You think I’m a fool who doesn’t know what to do with money;
right? After all, what evidence do you have to pester my life this way? If You guys deprive me of
my pleasure and blackmail me again, your days are numbered!

ABONGO
Well honourable, we hope you are not trying to threaten us because that would be unfortunate. And
talking of evidence, I believe you can recognise your own voice when it is being played back to your
hearing. Good day. (Abongo and the boys leave Acquah whose face expresses doubt)

53. EXT DAY. ACQUAH’S COMPOUND

Asiamah gets to Acquah’s house and greets him.

ACQUAH
Yes! What do you want?

ASIAMAH
Please sir, I’m looking for Auntie Alice.

ACQUAH
What for? (Alice starts coming out of the kitchen on hearing her name)

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 ASIAMAH
Mr. Abongo said I should come here and call her for him; for some information.

ACQUAH
Where is he? (Panicking)

ASIAMAH
He is in the village.

ACQUAH
Alright! Tell him she will be there soon.
Acquah immediately enters his bedroom spends about a minute and comes out. He heads straight
to the main gate, going out.
ALICE
Acquah! (Acquah turns with a panic). Where are you going?

ACQUAH
I have to check on something urgently. I will be back very soon.

ALICE
I thought I heard someone mention my name?

ACQUAH
Yeah! The young boy actually wanted to know whether you have some clothes for him to wash. But
I said no. So darling let me rush and come back soon.

ALICE
Alright! (Acquah leaves as Alice gets back to the kitchen)

54. EXT DAY. VILLAGE STREETS

Acquah is walking fast and looking back from time to time. People call him from different
angles, honourable, honourable. All he does is to raise his hand high while still walking at the
same rate.

55. EXT DAY. OUTSIDE VILLAGE

Abongo and the boys are playing cards when Acquah arrives.

ACQUAH
Boys, has it come to this? Do you have to get my wife involved?

ABONGO
Shut up! We were playing it cool with you, yet you remained adamant. You have the money and we
want the money. So let’s have the money and we’ll all live in harmony. Is this too hard for you to
do?

KABRUTU
And besides we may even give you some votes as well. You know we control a large part of this
community. Think.

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 ACQUAH
But seriously, you guys should leave my wife out of this. I brought you money and lots of it. So Let
the secret remain between us. (He brings out three big bundles of money and gives them to
Abongo).

ABONGO
Yes man! You’ve paid your way through. So now I can be somewhat confident and say you’ve won
the election hands down. (The boys are full of smirks, pointing and laughing behind Acquah’s
back).

ACQUAH
I must be leaving before someone sees me. (He gets out of there). (Abongo and the boys throw
away the cards still in jubilation).

ABONGO
This will definitely help to finance the last days of the Boss’s campaign. (Laughs wildly, Ha! Ha!
Ha Ha!.........)

CUT

56. EXT DAY. VILLAGE SQUARE

All the candidates are on stage to give their last campaign speeches. Acquah has his bodyguard
behind him. They speak in turns.
ODURO
The youth should be ready for me because they are my target. I will mobilise them and find ways of
acquiring loans for them to start something to help this community. Vote for Oduro Ameyaw, for
development. Thank you.
Part of the crowd cheers him as he goes back to his place for Ofori to come. Before Ofori talks
the whole place is filled with laughter.
OFORI
Alright! Alright! You guys have shown how you love me. I therefore urge you all to let this reflect in
the ballot box on January 1st. I may not be rich, but I’m a man about town, known everywhere in
this vicinity. The high and mighty will gladly develop this community just because the most
respectable Ofori is in charge. Thank you all. (Some scattered cheers follow Ofori. As Bozanga
comes forward there are Boos from parts of the crowd!).

BOZANGA (coming forward)

Thank you, thank you, Some of us have been here from our youth and we feel as part of you as
anyone here. Even though my name may be a bit different I am as much a citizen of Kantankakrom
as anyone here. Therefore, The time has come for change from the tired old ways of the previous
politicians. Now I ask you to give change a chance, I want you to know that I care for you and I am
here for you. Give peace a chance and give prosperity a chance because I Ibn Bozanga Battanga will
be a father to the whole community and will bring all these things to all the people of Kantankakrom
(Wild cheers from the NPD parts, silence from other parts of the crowd).

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 GYASI (steps forward)
It gladdens my heart to see us all together like this. But the question is do we have love for one
another? (The place is quiet, following that question). Imagine the place we are now is a high street
where big vehicles pass. Upon seeing a crowd like this, every driver will find another route without
even coming near. But let an individual decide to lie prostrate across the road. He will either be
trampled upon or get beaten by an angry driver. This tells you that unity is strength and that’s all I
am fighting for. With unity we can move mountains and extend the boundaries of this village. Let’s
vote and vote wisely. Thank you.
The crowd cheers him and increases the noise when Acquah steps forward, with Afram following
him. There are cries of Cash! Cash! Cash! Eye Cash! He waits patiently till the wild cheers
subside.

ACQUAH
Good people, Do I even have to talk? Do I even need to make any noise? Old men, old women,
Men, Women, Boys, Girls, Toddlers and even Unborn Infants know what Ohene Acquah can and
will do for this community! You all know the development I will bring! You all know I will put
money in your pockets! Vote for me and you will all have a chance to succeed in life! Thank you.
(The cheers rise up again, higher and higher, cries of Cash! Cash! Cash! Eye Cash!).

FADE

57. INT DAY. DRINKING BAR

Kabrutu and Dansoaa are seated face to face drinking. Dansoaa looks round every now and then
with fright.
KABRUTU
Why do you look frightened? Are you expecting somebody? Even if your father finds you here he
will not dare to interfere, so relax!

DANSOAA
No! but its true, I am afraid my daddy might find me here. If he does he will be extremely mad at
me.

KABRUTU
Don’t worry about your daddy. He’s my very good friend and will even be glad to see the both of us
together. Very glad indeed!

DANSOAA
How? Since when did my father become your friend?

KABRUTU
You think I’m lying right? Or is it because I don’t come home to visit him? That is because of your
mother. She is not my friend but your father is. So don’t panic. I’m here for you. (He gives
Dansoaa a sip from his glass and then kisses her deeply). That’s my baby, I’m going to get you
drunk today and then we’ll have lots of fun tonight. Barman; more drinks!

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 CUT

58. EXT NIGHT. ACQUAH’S COMPOUND

Dansoaa helps her mother to cook as Serwaa and Akua enter.

AKUA
Ei! Dansoaa, so you have not even made any preparation yet.

DANSOAA
Oh! But it’s not yet time? Where are you girls rushing to?

SERWAA
We are not taking chances at all, because from the look of things, if we don’t go early, we may not
get places to sit.

ALICE
And where are you girls taking my daughter to if I may ask?

AKUA
Oh! Ma, we are going for the end of year all-night service.

ALICE
Sorry, she’s not going. So you girls should better start going. There is a lot of work to be done in this
house.
There’s a frown on Dansoaa’s face as Akua and Serwaa slink away shamefully. (Back to
Dansoaa) I’m going very soon to collect my cloth from the seamstress, If you know what is good for
you, make sure I come to meet you at home.

59. INT NIGHT. ACQUAH’S BEDROOM

Acquah is counting money. He puts some in his pocket and hides the rest under his mattress. He
picks some clothes to wear and exits the room.

60. MONTAGE
a. ACQUAH ENTERS A BAR AND SEES NO ONE THERE EXCEPT THE BAR TENDER. HE
QUIETLY LEAVES.
b. ACQUAH ENTERS ANOTHER DRINKING BAR AND FINDS ONLY BAFFOUR AND THE
BAR TENDER. HE BUYS TWO BOTTLES OF BEER AND GIVES ONE TO BAFFOUR.
BAFFOUR IS FULL OF SMILES.
c. ACQUAH GOING BACK HOME DEJECTED.
d. ACQUAH IN HIS ROOM; REMOVES HIS CLOTHES AND LIES ON HIS BED, FACE UP.

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61. INT NIGHT. CHURCH HALL
The church is filled to capacity with the congregation singing a praise song. The song ends and
Pastor Wiafe takes over.
PASTOR WIAFE
Are you happy; somebody? (Yes! Responds the congregation). If you are, then shake the next
person and say “God bless you”. (They shout “God bless you” from different angles). Tonight is a
very special night. It’s a night of unity for development in the house of the Lord and in the entire
community. Sometimes, God uses human beings to execute his intentions. He therefore used one
man in our midst, (CU of Gyasi) a son, a father and a brother to make this a possibility. So if we
are ready for fire, let’s welcome Mr. Gyasi Asiedu to continue the worship (there’s cheers
everywhere as Gyasi rises up to mount the altar. (CU OF NYARKOAA)

62. EXT NIGHT. ISOLATED CORNER

Ofori is walking and counting some coins to go and buy drinks. He bumps into Alice in a corner.
Ofori begins to look around to find an escape route.

ALICE
Ohoo! Small world isn’t it? Who would have thought I would meet you one-on- one without a
rescuer like this. The chief and his stupid elders are not here to defend you. So let’s see how you
survive this time.
She puts down her carrier bag getting ready to fight Ofori. But Before she raises her head Ofori
begins to run. Alice runs after him till she gets tired. She returns to pick her bag.

63. EXT NIGHT. FORECOURT OF CHURCH BUILDING

Ofori comes to a halt in front of the church where the “all-night” service is going on. He
breathes like a tired horse as the church service goes on.

GYASI
So if the devil pursues you, where do you go?

CONGREGATION
The house of God!

GYASI
This is where peace reigns everlastingly. (Ofori enters the church). So no matter how heavy your
iniquities are, he’s ready to free you and give you rest. At this moment if you are a sinner and you
want to change and take Jesus as your Lord and personal saviour, come forward and let’s pray. Let
this year take all your iniquities away with it and be a new person in the New Year. (People start
going forward to the altar. Amongst them are Oduro, Ofori, Amina, Akua and Serwaa). Father, I
commit these souls into your mighty hands. Let your will be done in their lives…………. (He
finishes praying and they head back to their seats, Oduro and Ofori wait as the others go).
Tomorrow is an election day, to make one of us the Congress member of our village. It’s
unfortunate some of us are not here, but the three of us will be a point of contact to ensure peaceful
elections. So let’s pray. Father I commit my brethren and I into your hands. Any spirit of confusion,
I cast out in the name of Jesus. We pray for a peaceful election so that your name will be glorified.
Amen.

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 CONGREGATION
Amen!

ODURO
I have something to say.

GYASI
Please Go on.

ODURO
You have shown me that, you are a peacemaker and not vying for the position for the sake of your
stomach but for the unity of this community. I therefore declare here and now my alliance with you.
I therefore urge all my supporters and fans to vote for Gyasi Asiedu because his vision will improve
this community. Also, from this moment, I give my life to Christ. (There are cheers everywhere
filled with passion).

OFORI
I second my brother and I also join in unity with the two to fight a common cause. Vote Gyasi
Asiedu for a better Kantankakrom. (The cheers rise up higher as Gyasi hugs the two of them).

DISSOLVE

64. MONTAGE DAY (POLLING STATION)

e. VILLAGERS IN A QUEUE VOTING.
f. ACQUAH ON HIS WAY TO VOTE; CLAD IN WHITE ATTIRE FOLLOWED BY AFRAM.
g. THE CHIEF AND ELDERS VOTING.
h. GYASI AND HIS WIFE PRAYING.
i. OFORI AND ODURO VOTING.
j. ACHIAA VOTING.
k. GYASI CASTING HIS VOTE.

CUT

65. EXT NIGHT. POLLING STATION

Votes cast are being counted as some of the villagers surround the electoral officers to ensure fair
counting.
ELECTORAL OFFICER
Three Thousand and one ……Three thousand and two …….Three thousand and three
……….Three thousand and four. (The crowd count along, and after the last ballot is counted; they
begin to jubilate; eeei! Gyasi o! Gyasi o! Gyasi o!)

66. EXT NIGHT. STREET

Gyasi’s supporters are on the streets singing, cheering and shouting his name.

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67. INT NIGHT. ACQUAH’S HALL
Acquah is extremely furious and going to and fro in his hall. Agyei comes in.

AGYEI
Boss, have you heard the news? Have you heard the results?

ACQUAH
I’ve heard it and it’s bad. Thanks to you. You guys gave me high hopes. I thought I was going to
win with a high margin. Now see, all this money I spent gone down the drain.

AGYEI
Whatever we told you sir, it was the truth. It is the alliance between Oduro and Ofori and Gyasi that
is why he won.

ACQUAH
There’s no way, I will understand this. I must surely call for a re-election. I’m sure the election was
rigged. But for now I need to be alone. I’m not a happy man. Do excuse me.

AGYEI
Okay sir. (He leaves)

68. EXT NIGHT. BOZANGA AT THE FETISH SHRINE

Bozanga is once again at the Fetish Shrine looking as enraged as a Demon. We zoom in on his
bloodshot staring eyes. We slowly zoom out keeping his eyes in focus till we are out of shot.

THE END

44