Paul Afoko, a candidate for National Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has stated that the party should pick its leaders based on their skills, not their ethnic group. He believes competence should be the main factor when choosing who will lead the party nationally. Mr. Afoko made these important points during meetings he held weeks ago. These were with the Ashanti Regional Council of Elders and the Ashanti Regional Executives in Kumasi. These meetings were part of his efforts to talk to party members across Ghana. He wants to bring the party together before their National Delegates Conference.
Mr. Afoko voiced worries about the NPP's current condition. He asked party members not to focus too much on the loss in the 2024 election. He also advised against blaming others for the defeat. "We need to use all our shared experiences," he told the members. He explained that his main goal is to help rebuild the party. "I want to be remembered for rebuilding this party," he said. He stressed that everyone must work together. "We cannot just stand by and watch the party get weaker," he added. He also pointed out that the grassroots members are very important for the party's success in future elections.
The NPP is a major political party in Ghana. Its performance in elections significantly affects the country's economic direction and public finances. The party's ability to form a government often means shifts in fiscal policy, investment priorities, and trade agreements. The Ashanti Region is known as the NPP's stronghold. Historically, it has provided significant support that has helped the party win national elections. The election of party leaders, especially at the national level, can influence policy decisions and economic strategies. These choices send signals to investors and affect market confidence.
Mr. Afoko is campaigning with a clear plan called the "3R Agenda." This plan focuses on Reuniting the party, Rebuilding its structures, and Recapturing political power. He believes this is the only way for the NPP to win again. The Ashanti Region is crucial for the NPP's electoral victories. Mr. Afoko acknowledges this by saying, "The heartbeat of the NPP is the Ashanti Region, and that remains a fact." He also added that he valued their advice, stating, "I am open to advice because you are the ones running the party."
He also emphasized the need for unity. He argued that the NPP must unite its strengths. This is essential because the party cannot afford to let the National Democratic Congress (NDC) remain in power. The NPP needs to combine its collective knowledge to regain political standing. Those who spoke at both meetings urged Mr. Afoko to stay focused. They encouraged him to continue his work in rebuilding the party. They also want him to position the NPP strongly for the 2028 general elections. The party's capacity to govern the nation and manage its economy is at stake.