By Francis Kobena Tandoh
Ghana’s main opposition, the New Patriotic Party (NPP), is holding its first major delegates conference at the University of Ghana, Legon, after losing the 2024 general election to the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
According to the party leadership, all is set for the party to consider some proposals to rebuild the party after performing abysmally in the last election.
Ahead of the delegates’ conference, the party received some proposals as part of efforts to rebuild the party towards the 2028 general election.
Ghana Eye Report looks at some of the major proposals put forward by some members of the opposition party.
Major Proposals Under Review
1. Abolition of the “Special Electoral College”
- A top-line reform is scrapping Article 13(1)(9) — the existing Special Electoral College that vets presidential aspirants before broader primaries. Its removal would allow all candidates to go directly to the wider delegate body, which proponents say would enhance inclusivity and eliminate elite gatekeeping.
2. Dramatically Expanded Delegate Base
- Under the abolition plan, the voting base would broaden to include:
- National and regional committees
- Polling‑station executives
- Electoral‑area coordinators
- National Council of Elders & Patrons
- Past and present MPs, ministers, MMDCEs
- TESCON reps, founder members, and special-party organs.
3. Grassroots & Governance Reforms
- Other key amendments (part of the 59 total):
- Empower polling‑station committees and create five‑member area committees
- Restructure constituency and regional executives, formalizing appointed roles like Legal Director, IT Coordinator, PWDA Coordinator
- Review the National Youth Wing, strengthen vetting mechanisms, and add checks on dual office‑holding.
Why These Proposals Matter
- The NPP’s theme, “Rebuilding Together with Our Values,” emphasizes introspection after the 2024 defeat. Delegates are being urged to use this conference to unify and refocus towards the next election.
- Industry analysts argue that expanding delegate numbers could reduce undue elite influence and financial manipulation, restoring democratic legitimacy to internal elections.
Legal Challenge Looming
- Two members, Shamsudeen Iddrisu and Boateng Kwadwo, filed a court challenge (motion filed July 17, hearing set for July 24) claiming the NPP skipped required constituency/regional endorsed processes by the NEC — a step they say violates party rules.
- However, the NPP denies receiving a formal court notice and plans to proceed unless officially restrained.
No Campaigning At the Venue
- To avoid internal politicking, the party has banned all aspirants’ paraphernalia (banners, T‑shirts, etc.) aimed at working towards the theme of the conference. Enditem
Source: Ghana Eye Report
Share Us
