Paul Afoko, a former National Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has warned that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) is becoming a formidable political force threatening the ruling NPP. He attributed this rise to the NPP's internal divisions and significant losses in the 2024 parliamentary elections. The NPP's representation dropped from 160 seats to 80 seats.
Mr. Afoko stated on Nhyira FM’s Kro Yi Mu Nsem on Friday, July 3, 2026, that these electoral setbacks highlight deep structural problems within the NPP. He highlighted the NDC’s recent victories in constituencies traditionally considered NPP strongholds. These include Wenchi in the Bono Region and Yendi in the Northern Region.
This political shift comes amid increasing concerns about Ghana's economic stability and public finance management. The ruling party's ability to maintain public confidence and implement key policies depends on its internal cohesion. A fragmented political landscape could lead to policy uncertainty, potentially affecting investor sentiment and long-term economic planning. Data from recent election cycles shows a trend of increasing voter volatility, making party unity crucial for electoral success.
“The NDC is a threat to our party. Dropping from 160 to 80 MPs shows the party is unwell,” Mr. Afoko told host Nana Ampratwum. He added, “Not long ago, there was a belief that in the Ashanti Region, especially Bantama, even if you were an animal and contested on the NPP ticket, you would not lose. That mentality is gone now.” He believes that these losses illustrate a critical decline in the NPP's traditional strongholds.
The immediate implication is that the NPP must address its internal rifts quickly to present a united front for the 2028 general elections. Observers will closely watch any reconciliation efforts within the party. Any further disunity could complicate the NPP's efforts to retain power and manage the national economy effectively. The political implications could spill over into market confidence and the stability of the Ghana cedi.
Mr. Afoko, who is also an aspiring National Chairman, stressed that unity is the only way for the party to regain electoral dominance. He described the NPP as “unwell” and said, “The party needs healing. Unity is the medicine we need if we want to recapture power in the next election.” He pledged to lead a reconciliation drive if elected, aiming to bring back estranged members like Alan Kyerematen. This strategy is critical for consolidating the party's base and countering the NDC's momentum.
He also issued a warning to the party’s National Executive Council against expelling former Assin Central MP Kennedy Agyapong. “I am warning the Executive Council not to tolerate any move to sack Kennedy Agyapong,” he stated. Mr. Afoko emphasized that the NPP cannot afford to lose more members amidst its current challenges. This reflects a broader concern about maintaining party cohesion ahead of crucial elections.
Reflecting on his suspension from the party in 2015, Mr. Afoko said the experience was “deeply painful.” Despite this, he reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to the NPP, stating, “The party is in my DNA, and I can’t let it collapse.” His personal experience underscores the deep-seated divisions that need healing within the party. The outcome of these internal struggles will significantly influence the NPP’s performance in 2028.