Stephen Ayesu Ntim’s departure from the helm of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) marks the end of an era, punctuated by both personal triumph and collective political setback. His resignation, attributed to serious health concerns, comes after over two decades of dedicated service to the party, culminating in his long-sought chairmanship in 2022. Ntim’s journey, characterized by unwavering perseverance through multiple unsuccessful bids, ultimately led to a landslide victory in his fifth attempt, showcasing his enduring appeal within the party’s ranks. However, his tenure as chairman was unfortunately marred by the NPP’s historic defeat in the 2024 general elections, a stark contrast to his initial vow to lead the party to victory. His exit, prompted by cognitive and mental health challenges, leaves a void within the party’s leadership and raises questions about the future direction of the NPP.
Ntim’s political career within the NPP was defined by his resilience and unwavering commitment. He first contested the chairmanship in 2005, losing to Mac Manu. Undeterred, he made subsequent bids in 2010, 2014, and 2018, facing defeat against Jake Obetsebi-Lamptey, Paul Afoko, and Freddie Blay respectively. Each setback seemed to only strengthen his resolve, ultimately leading to his overwhelming victory in 2022, where he secured over 4,000 votes, significantly outpacing his closest rival, Stephen Asamoah Boateng. This win, after years of striving, was a testament to his enduring popularity and the party’s faith in his leadership capabilities. It represented the culmination of years of dedication and hard work within the party, finally achieving the position he had long coveted.
However, the high hopes and optimism surrounding Ntim’s chairmanship were soon overshadowed by the party’s devastating performance in the 2024 general elections. The NPP not only lost the presidency but also surrendered its parliamentary majority, a historic defeat that triggered internal soul-searching and the formation of a 12-member committee to investigate the underlying causes. This loss cast a long shadow over Ntim’s leadership, although it is important to note that the complexities of electoral outcomes are rarely attributable to a single individual. The reasons for the NPP’s defeat were likely multifaceted, including factors beyond the control of the party chairman. Nevertheless, the loss undoubtedly marked a difficult chapter in Ntim’s political career and ultimately coincided with the onset of his health challenges.
The circumstances surrounding Ntim’s resignation highlight the immense pressure and strain associated with high-profile political positions. His family’s letter, citing “cognitive dissonance and mental incapacitation,” underscores the toll that political life can take on an individual’s well-being. The request for a leave of absence, coupled with the warning against his participation in the scheduled leadership meeting, paints a concerning picture of his health status. The party’s decision to prioritize his health and well-being reflects a compassionate approach and underscores the importance of recognizing the human cost of political engagement.
Ntim’s resignation leaves a significant gap in the NPP’s leadership structure. First Vice Chairman Danquah Smith Buttey will assume the role of Acting National Chairman, stepping into a position fraught with challenges. Buttey will be tasked with navigating the aftermath of the 2024 electoral defeat, rebuilding party morale, and charting a course for future electoral success. This transition comes at a critical juncture for the NPP, requiring strong and decisive leadership to unify the party and regain public trust. Buttey’s ability to effectively lead the party through this turbulent period will be a crucial factor in the NPP’s prospects for future electoral contests.
In conclusion, Stephen Ayesu Ntim’s departure from the NPP chairmanship represents a significant moment in the party’s history. His story, marked by perseverance, eventual triumph, and ultimately, a challenging and difficult tenure as chairman, highlights the unpredictable nature of political life. His legacy will undoubtedly be shaped by both his unwavering commitment to the party and the unfortunate circumstances of the 2024 electoral defeat. As the NPP moves forward under new leadership, it will be essential to learn from the past, address the internal divisions that may have contributed to their recent setback, and forge a united front to regain their footing in the political landscape. The party’s future success will depend on its ability to adapt, innovate, and present a compelling vision to the electorate.
