NPP’s electoral defeat rooted in missteps and internal challenges

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has faced a resounding electoral defeat, attributed largely to a series of poor decisions and internal mismanagement that eroded public trust and party cohesion. Analysts and party insiders point to key factors that undermined the party’s performance, leading to this outcome.

One of the most criticized actions was the party’s display of bravado, such as allegedly instructing traditional chiefs to stand during presidential arrivals. This perceived disregard for cultural protocols alienated significant portions of the electorate.

Additionally, divisions within the party became glaring when NPP Members of Parliament called for the replacement of the Finance Minister, citing his inability to address economic challenges. Despite this, powerful factions within the party ensured he retained his position until the election year, sidelining those who opposed the decision.

Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, once hailed as the party’s “economic messiah” during the 2016 elections, shifted his focus from economic management to digitization initiatives. While he launched numerous digital applications, these failed to resonate with Ghanaians, with even party members reportedly not adopting the platforms. The party’s reliance on Ken Ofori-Atta to manage the economy, despite mounting public criticism, further fueled dissatisfaction.

Observers also lamented the sidelining of seasoned economic experts like the late Dr. Akoto Osei, whose contributions during President Kufuor’s tenure were highly regarded.

The NPP’s candidate selection process was marred by allegations of financial influence, where delegates reportedly prioritized aspirants with financial clout over credible candidates. This practice alienated voters and tarnished the party’s reputation as a merit-based institution.

The NPP’s failure to fulfill promises in the Ashanti Region, a traditional stronghold, proved costly. Projects like the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Boankra Inland Port, and Sofoline Interchange were either abandoned or left incomplete, drawing sharp criticism. The hurried completion of major roads and projects shortly before elections was seen as a desperate attempt to win votes.

In other regions, abandoned infrastructure projects, such as the E-Block schools in the Volta Region, highlighted a lack of empathy and focus on inclusive development.

Internal conflicts within the NPP further weakened the party. Regional chairmen were accused of running the party like personal enterprises, handpicking parliamentary candidates without regard for the party’s broader interests.

The NPP now faces critical questions about its leadership and decision-making. From the symbolic controversy of commissioning a statue on a dusty road to the neglect of key projects, the party’s actions have left a lasting impression on voters.

Moving forward, political analysts emphasize the need for humility, unity, and a return to core values if the NPP hopes to regain public trust and rebuild its reputation as a party of intellectual and development-focused governance.