The internal dynamics of Ghana’s New Patriotic Party (NPP) have been recently strained by a reported clash between two prominent figures: Dr. Bryan Acheampong, a Member of Parliament and flagbearer hopeful, and Bernard Antwi Boasiako, also known as Chairman Wontumi, the Ashanti Regional Chairman. The alleged incident, which reportedly occurred during a council meeting, centers around Dr. Acheampong telling Chairman Wontumi to “shut up.” This seemingly dismissive remark, purportedly justified by Dr. Acheampong’s claim of previously securing Wontumi’s release from the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO) custody, has sparked controversy and raised concerns about decorum within the party.
Alhaji Osman Masawudu, the Third National Vice Chairman of the NPP, has publicly criticized Dr. Acheampong’s alleged conduct, characterizing it as disrespectful and inappropriate. While acknowledging Dr. Acheampong’s generosity and history of supporting party members and others, Alhaji Masawudu emphasized that such behavior damages the party’s image and undermines the principles of mutual respect and unity that are crucial for its success. He drew a distinction between a raised voice and the dismissive command to “shut up,” particularly when linked to a claim of past assistance, suggesting that the latter carries a condescending tone that is unacceptable within the party’s ranks.
The incident highlights the potential for internal tensions to escalate, especially during periods of leadership transition and competition. As the NPP gears up for future elections, maintaining unity and projecting a cohesive image are vital for electoral success. Alhaji Masawudu’s intervention underscores the importance of addressing such conflicts promptly and decisively to prevent further escalation and preserve the party’s integrity. His call for condemnation of the behavior serves as a reminder that personal differences should not overshadow the collective goals and principles of the party.
The incident also raises questions about the power dynamics within the NPP and the potential for past actions to be used as leverage in current disputes. Dr. Acheampong’s alleged justification for his remark, referencing a past instance of assisting Chairman Wontumi, introduces a complex layer to the situation. It suggests a potential culture of patronage or reciprocal favors within the party, where past assistance might be perceived as granting certain privileges or justifying assertive behavior. This raises broader concerns about transparency and accountability within the party’s internal workings.
Alhaji Masawudu’s call for unity and respect serves as a timely reminder of the importance of maintaining decorum and civility, particularly among senior party members. His emphasis on condemning unacceptable behavior signifies a desire to establish clear boundaries and uphold ethical standards within the party. By addressing this incident publicly, he has signaled a commitment to transparency and accountability, reinforcing the message that such conduct will not be tolerated, regardless of an individual’s position or past contributions.
The future of the NPP hinges on its ability to navigate internal conflicts effectively and present a united front. The incident involving Dr. Acheampong and Chairman Wontumi serves as a crucial lesson in the importance of fostering respectful communication and upholding ethical standards within the party. Alhaji Masawudu’s response, characterized by a clear condemnation of the alleged behavior and a call for unity, sets a precedent for how the party should address internal disputes moving forward. It underscores the crucial role of party leadership in maintaining discipline, promoting mutual respect, and prioritizing the collective good over individual egos and rivalries. As the NPP prepares for future challenges, its ability to learn from this incident and strengthen internal cohesion will be paramount to its continued success.
