The New Patriotic Party (NPP) in Ghana is embroiled in a contentious debate surrounding its plans for electing a new flagbearer following its defeat in the 2024 presidential election. Dr. Nyaho Nyaho Tamakloe, a prominent statesman and former NPP member, has voiced strong criticism, alleging that the party’s accelerated timeline and procedures for the flagbearer election appear to be manipulated in favor of a specific candidate. He argues that this approach, which bypasses crucial steps such as a thorough internal reorganization and a comprehensive post-election analysis, disregards legitimate concerns raised by influential party members. Dr. Tamakloe emphasizes that a genuine introspection of the factors contributing to the party’s significant loss – a margin of 1.7 million votes – is essential before embarking on the selection of a new leader. He cautions that prematurely rushing into a flagbearer election without addressing the underlying issues could exacerbate existing internal divisions and further weaken the party’s prospects.
Dr. Tamakloe’s critique centers on the NPP’s decision to schedule the flagbearer election for January 31, 2026, a decision made during a National Executive Council meeting held on June 17, 2025. He contends that this rapid move towards selecting a new leader, without first undertaking a comprehensive review of the party’s electoral strategy and performance, demonstrates a lack of commitment to genuine reform. He expresses skepticism about the current leadership’s ability to oversee a fair and transparent selection process, given their responsibility for the party’s recent defeat. He argues that entrusting the same leadership with rebuilding the party is a misguided approach and calls for a more inclusive and transparent process that adheres strictly to the party’s constitution.
The NPP’s electoral defeat in 2024 marked a significant setback for the party, particularly in the context of their “break the eight” campaign, which aimed to secure a third consecutive term in office. The loss has triggered internal tensions and sparked debates about the party’s future direction. Dr. Tamakloe’s concerns reflect a broader sentiment within the party that a thorough examination of the reasons behind the defeat, including an assessment of campaign strategies, messaging, and voter engagement, is crucial for a successful resurgence. He suggests that the current leadership’s focus on quickly selecting a new flagbearer could be an attempt to avoid accountability and maintain control, rather than genuinely addressing the issues that led to their electoral loss.
Dr. Tamakloe’s call for a transparent and inclusive process resonates with the need to unite the party after a divisive election. He stresses the importance of engaging all stakeholders in a constructive dialogue to identify weaknesses and develop a roadmap for future success. His emphasis on adhering to the party’s constitution underscores the need for a rule-based approach that ensures fairness and prevents manipulation. He believes that a transparent process, which allows for open discussion and debate, is essential for restoring confidence among party members and rebuilding trust with the electorate.
The NPP’s flagbearer race is already attracting considerable attention, with several prominent figures emerging as potential contenders. These include former Assin Central MP Kennedy Agyapong, former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, former Education Minister Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, Abetifi MP Bryan Acheampong, and former General Secretary Kwabena Agyei Agyepong. The diverse range of potential candidates reflects the varied perspectives and ambitions within the party. However, Dr. Tamakloe’s concerns about a potentially skewed process raise questions about whether the playing field will be level for all contenders. He suggests that the current leadership’s actions could create an unfair advantage for a preferred candidate, potentially undermining the integrity of the election.
Ultimately, the NPP faces a critical juncture in its history. The party must navigate the challenges posed by its recent electoral defeat and choose a path forward that addresses internal divisions and restores its credibility with the electorate. Dr. Tamakloe’s critique serves as a timely reminder of the importance of genuine self-reflection, transparency, and inclusivity in rebuilding the party. The upcoming flagbearer election will not only determine the party’s future leadership but also shape its approach to the 2028 elections. The NPP’s ability to learn from its past mistakes, address internal concerns, and present a united front will be crucial for its future success. A transparent and inclusive process, free from manipulation, will be essential for ensuring that the party chooses the best possible leader to guide it forward.
