Alexander Afenyo-Markin, the Minority Leader in Ghana’s Parliament, delivered a powerful and impassioned address to the New Patriotic Party (NPP) at their National Delegates Conference, calling for unity, introspection, and a return to the party’s core values. Speaking to thousands of gathered delegates at the University of Ghana Stadium, Afenyo-Markin acknowledged the sting of the NPP’s 2024 electoral defeat, but emphasized the party’s resilience and potential for resurgence. He rejected the narrative of a fractured and disoriented party, instead framing the current period as an opportunity for renewal and strategic repositioning. His message resonated with a call for collective responsibility and a renewed commitment to the principles that underpin the NPP’s identity.
Afenyo-Markin’s central theme was the paramount importance of unity. He stressed that while differing opinions and perspectives are natural within a vibrant political party, loyalty to the shared goals and vision of the NPP must supersede internal divisions. He urged party members to move forward with a single voice, recognizing that unity amplifies their collective strength and provides a solid foundation for rebuilding. He emphasized that unity is not about uniformity or stifling dissent, but rather about channeling diverse energies toward a common purpose. This shared purpose, he argued, must be rooted in a deep commitment to serving the Ghanaian people and upholding the party’s founding principles.
The Minority Leader’s address also focused on the need for introspection and reform. He acknowledged that internal strife, mistrust, and a departure from core values contributed to the party’s recent electoral setback. He urged members to engage in honest self-assessment, acknowledging past mistakes without succumbing to despair. He called for an end to internal “hate campaigns” and urged a return to discipline and mutual respect within the party ranks. Afenyo-Markin emphasized that the NPP is not a broken party, but rather a “battle-tested” one, capable of learning from its experiences and emerging stronger and more unified.
A key element of Afenyo-Markin’s message was the importance of reconnecting with the grassroots and the broader Ghanaian public. He stressed the need for the NPP to re-engage with its base, actively listen to their concerns, and develop a bold new vision that resonates with the aspirations of ordinary Ghanaians. He argued that genuine connection with the grassroots is essential for understanding the needs of the people and formulating policies that effectively address those needs. This renewed engagement, he suggested, must be underpinned by humility, integrity, and a demonstrable respect for party structures.
Beyond internal reform, Afenyo-Markin stressed the need for a comprehensive rebranding of the NPP. He argued that the party must not only focus on policy results but also project an image of integrity, humility, and respect. He urged party members to embody these values in their language, tone, strategy, and interpersonal interactions. This, he argued, would help restore public trust and demonstrate the NPP’s commitment to serving the best interests of Ghana. He underscored the principle that no individual is bigger than the party, and that this principle must be reflected in every aspect of the NPP’s operations.
The National Delegates Conference served as the launchpad for a comprehensive reorganization process within the NPP. Afenyo-Markin’s call to action, emphasizing unity, introspection, grassroots engagement, and a renewed commitment to core values, set the tone for this crucial period of reflection and rebuilding. The conference marks the beginning of what the party hopes will be a significant political turnaround, positioning the NPP for success in the 2028 general elections and beyond. The Minority Leader’s message resonated with the urgency of the moment, urging the NPP to rise from the ashes of defeat and reclaim its place as a leading force in Ghanaian politics.
