Kofi Ofosu Nkansah, CEO of the National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme (NEIP), has issued a stark warning to the New Patriotic Party (NPP): abolish the delegate system or face continued electoral defeat. His call for reform arises from a growing discontent within the party’s rank and file, particularly among those who feel excluded by the current system that concentrates power in the hands of a select few. He argues that this exclusivity fosters a sense of disillusionment and apathy, ultimately undermining the party’s electoral prospects. This sentiment was poignantly illustrated by an anecdote Nkansah shared, recounting a conversation with a disgruntled party member who questioned the value of their continued support when only a privileged minority benefited from party resources and opportunities. This individual’s experience of being overlooked while delegates received financial incentives, appliances, holiday packages, and even employment opportunities, underscores the perception of inequity and favoritism that the delegate system perpetuates.
Nkansah’s call for change comes in the aftermath of the NPP’s significant loss in the 2024 general elections, where former President John Dramani Mahama secured a decisive victory with a margin exceeding 1.6 million votes. This defeat has prompted introspection within the party, with numerous voices echoing Nkansah’s concerns about the detrimental impact of the delegate system. This system, which restricts the selection of party leadership to a small group of delegates, is seen as a major contributor to the disconnect between the party’s grassroots and its leadership. The concentration of power within this select group not only alienates the broader membership base but also creates an environment conducive to patronage and exclusivity.
The delegate system, as it currently stands, creates a hierarchical structure within the party, prioritizing the interests of a select few over the collective good. This system breeds resentment among the rank and file, who feel their contributions and voices are undervalued. The perception of unequal access to resources and opportunities further exacerbates this division, creating a two-tiered system within the party. Those who are part of the delegate group enjoy preferential treatment, while the majority of members are left feeling marginalized and disenfranchised. This disparity in treatment creates a sense of injustice and undermines the unity and cohesion necessary for electoral success.
Nkansah argues that the delegate system incentivizes a focus on appeasing a small group rather than addressing the needs and concerns of the broader membership. This narrow focus distorts the party’s priorities and hinders its ability to connect with the electorate at large. Instead of focusing on developing policies and programs that resonate with the general public, the party’s efforts are often directed towards securing the support of the delegates, who hold the key to leadership positions. This inward-looking approach weakens the party’s ability to effectively campaign and mobilize support during elections.
The consequences of this system are far-reaching. It not only creates internal divisions but also undermines the party’s credibility and appeal to voters. When ordinary party members feel their voices are not heard and their contributions are not valued, they become disillusioned and less likely to actively participate in party activities. This apathy translates into a decline in voter turnout and ultimately contributes to electoral defeat. The perception of favoritism and exclusivity also damages the party’s image in the eyes of the public, making it harder to attract new members and build a broad base of support.
Nkansah’s call to abolish the delegate system is therefore not simply a matter of internal party politics; it is a strategic imperative for the NPP’s future electoral viability. By democratizing the party’s internal processes and empowering the grassroots, the NPP can rebuild trust, foster unity, and regain its competitiveness in future elections. The party must recognize that its strength lies in the collective participation of all its members, not in the privileged position of a select few. A move towards a more inclusive and participatory system would not only address the concerns of disgruntled members but also signal a commitment to reform and renewal, potentially attracting a wider base of support and positioning the party for future success. Only by dismantling the current system and embracing a more equitable approach can the NPP hope to reclaim its position as a dominant force in Ghanaian politics.
