The New Patriotic Party (NPP) in Ghana’s Takoradi constituency is facing internal discord stemming from public pronouncements by Ernest Owusu Bempah, the Deputy National Communications Director. Grassroots members, polling station executives, and dedicated supporters have voiced concerns over Bempah’s actions, which they perceive as undermining party unity and discipline ahead of the 2028 elections. Their anxieties center around Bempah’s alleged “divisive and disrespectful remarks” targeting the party’s 2024 flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, despite a directive from the National Executives prohibiting public commentary on internal party matters. This perceived breach of protocol and the subsequent lack of disciplinary action against Bempah has fueled frustration and suspicion within the party’s rank and file, casting a shadow over the NPP’s preparations for the upcoming electoral cycle.
The core issue at stake is Bempah’s consistent and public criticism of Dr. Bawumia, the party’s chosen candidate for the 2024 presidential election. While the specifics of these remarks remain undisclosed in the provided text, their characterization as “divisive and disrespectful” suggests a challenge to Bawumia’s leadership or suitability for the role. This public dissent contradicts the NPP’s efforts to present a united front and solidify support behind their chosen candidate, potentially creating factions and weakening the party’s overall electoral prospects. The grassroots members’ concerns highlight the perceived double standard in the application of party rules, where Bempah’s actions seem to be tolerated while ordinary members are expected to adhere to the media gag order.
The Takoradi constituency group’s statement underscores the potential damage Bempah’s actions could inflict on the party’s long-term prospects. They cite his “track record of creating division within political parties,” suggesting a pattern of behavior that could exacerbate existing tensions or create new rifts within the NPP. This history, coupled with his current actions, raises concerns about the potential for long-term consequences if left unchecked. The statement calls for swift and decisive action from the national leadership to address the situation and restore confidence among party members.
The demand for accountability is explicit in the statement’s call for a formal communique condemning Bempah’s comments, distancing the party from his views, and initiating disciplinary action. This three-pronged approach aims to publicly rebuke Bempah, clarify the party’s official stance, and deter similar behavior in the future. The urgency of the situation is emphasized by the 24-hour deadline given to the National Executives, reflecting the grassroots members’ desire for immediate resolution and a demonstration of the leadership’s commitment to party unity. The call for disciplinary action serves as a warning to other party members and appointees against engaging in unauthorized campaigns or public endorsements before the official campaign period.
The underlying concern within the Takoradi constituency is the potential erosion of party discipline and unity, which are crucial for electoral success. Bempah’s actions are perceived not only as a personal attack on Dr. Bawumia but also as a disregard for the authority of the National Executives and the party’s established procedures. This disregard, coupled with the perceived inaction of the leadership, could create a sense of disillusionment among party members and weaken the collective effort needed to secure victory in the 2028 elections. The statement emphasizes the need for decisive leadership to address this issue and prevent further damage to the party’s image and internal cohesion.
The situation in the Takoradi constituency represents a microcosm of the challenges facing the NPP as it navigates the post-Akufo-Addo era. The party must balance the need for internal debate and diverse opinions with the imperative of maintaining unity and discipline, particularly during the transition to a new leader. The concerns raised by the grassroots members highlight the importance of addressing such issues promptly and transparently to prevent them from escalating into larger conflicts that could jeopardize the party’s future electoral prospects. The National Executives’ response to this situation will be a crucial test of their leadership and their ability to maintain party cohesion in the face of internal dissent.
