Several members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Tarkwa-Nsuaem Constituency are threatening to withdraw their support. This comes after a vetting process for polling station executive aspirants resulted in many disqualifications. Affected members claim the process was unfair and manipulated.
The discontent stems from a vetting exercise that saw numerous applicants removed. These members allege the process was arbitrary and favoured specific factions within the constituency. Reasons for disqualification reportedly included attending events with opposition party colours or having past disagreements with party members. One member questioned her loyalty after returning to actively support the party following a previous independent candidacy.
This internal turmoil occurs after the NPP lost the Tarkwa-Nsuaem parliamentary seat in the last elections. The party lost by a substantial margin of nearly 16,000 votes. Some members believe these internal divisions contributed to that significant loss. The current unrest suggests the party has failed to heal these past rifts and learn from its electoral setbacks.
“If you don’t want us at the party, then don’t come to us after the primaries to preach unity,” stated one group of disgruntled members. Moses, a party member from the Agona Electoral Area, expressed his frustration. He stated, “We have not learnt any lessons. We seem comfortable with defeat and not interested in rebuilding the party.” Multiple petitions have been sent to regional and national party executives, but responses have been minimal.
The situation poses a significant challenge for the NPP's national leadership. It highlights a pressing need for swift intervention to resolve internal disputes. Failure to address these grievances could further damage the party's cohesion and future electoral prospects. Political observers are watching closely for how the national party leadership will respond to this internal crisis and its potential impact on consolidating support across the country.