The New Patriotic Party (NPP) in Ghana is grappling with the aftermath of a significant electoral defeat in the 2024 elections, a loss that has sparked internal divisions and calls for introspection. A group within the party, the Concerned Patriots Association (CPA), has publicly rejected the proposal put forth by NPP National Chairman Stephen Ayensu Ntim to form a fact-finding committee to investigate the causes of the defeat. The CPA, while acknowledging the need for a thorough examination of the party’s shortcomings, argues that the focus should be on a complete overhaul of the leadership at all levels rather than a committee-based investigation. This difference of opinion highlights the emerging factions and conflicting approaches to rebuilding the party after the electoral setback.
The CPA, led by Alhaji Abubakari DaaNaa, attributes the NPP’s loss to a confluence of factors, primarily centering on the behavior and actions of appointees under the previous Akufo-Addo administration. DaaNaa points to an alleged pervasive “arrogance of power” displayed by these officials, coupled with a neglect of the party’s grassroots base. This disconnect between the party’s leadership and its foundational supporters is cited as a key contributor to the decline in electoral fortunes. Furthermore, DaaNaa criticizes individuals described as “bootlickers” who allegedly hijacked the campaign of Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the NPP’s presidential candidate, further exacerbating the party’s internal struggles. These accusations paint a picture of internal disunity and strategic missteps that, according to the CPA, ultimately contributed to the party’s defeat.
In contrast to the perceived failings of the current leadership, the CPA has put forward former NPP General Secretary Kwabena Agyapong as a figure capable of leading the party towards reconciliation and renewal. DaaNaa praises Agyapong’s unwavering loyalty to the NPP and suggests that he is uniquely positioned to spearhead a nationwide effort to heal divisions within the party. This endorsement of Agyapong represents a clear challenge to the existing power structure within the NPP and suggests a desire for a significant shift in leadership direction. The CPA’s advocacy for Agyapong underscores the internal struggle for control and the search for a figure who can unite the party and chart a course back to electoral success.
The CPA credits Agyapong with inspiring disillusioned party members to cast their votes for Bawumia and contributing to the retention of several parliamentary seats. DaaNaa argues that Agyapong’s late-stage media appearances and interventions played a crucial role in mitigating voter apathy and mobilizing support for the party’s candidates. This assertion highlights the CPA’s belief that Agyapong possesses a unique ability to connect with the electorate and inspire party loyalty, qualities they believe are lacking in the current leadership. By emphasizing Agyapong’s positive impact on the election outcome, despite the overall defeat, the CPA implicitly criticizes the campaign strategies and leadership of those currently at the helm of the NPP.
The disagreement over the formation of a review committee reflects a deeper divide within the NPP regarding the path forward after the 2024 electoral defeat. While Chairman Ntim’s proposal for a committee suggests a desire for a structured and analytical approach to understanding the loss, the CPA’s rejection of this proposal indicates a preference for more immediate and sweeping changes in leadership. This difference in approach underscores the tension between those who advocate for a systematic review and those who believe that a fundamental change in personnel is necessary for the party’s revival.
The internal struggle within the NPP highlights the challenges facing the party as it attempts to regroup and regain its footing in the Ghanaian political landscape. The accusations of arrogance, neglect, and internal sabotage leveled by the CPA paint a picture of a party grappling with internal divisions and struggling to adapt to the changing political dynamics. The call for new leadership, embodied by the endorsement of Kwabena Agyapong, signifies a desire for a fresh start and a rejection of the status quo. The outcome of this internal power struggle will likely determine the future direction of the NPP and its ability to compete effectively in future elections.
