New Patriotic Party National Chairman aspirant Paul Awentami Afoko has officially announced his intention to contest for the party’s National Chairman position after months of consultations. He explained that the decision followed extensive engagements with party leaders and members who shared their expectations for the future of the New Patriotic Party.
The National Chairman hopeful disclosed that he met regional executives, patrons and councils of elders in all sixteen regions before making his declaration. According to Mr Afoko, the consultations also involved the party’s 2024 presidential candidate, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, former President John Agyekum Kufuor, former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo Addo, members of Parliament and the minority caucus.
Furthermore, he clarified that those engagements did not amount to campaigning because the party’s internal electoral processes had not officially begun. The NPP National Chairman aspirant stated that he is committed to respecting the party’s constitution and would submit himself to every established procedure.
Discussing the consultations, Mr Afoko said he deliberately chose to listen before making any declaration. He explained that conversations with constituency executives, women organisers, youth groups, former appointees, parliamentary candidates and grassroots members influenced his understanding of the current mood within the party.
From his perspective, many supporters acknowledged the setbacks facing the party while remaining optimistic about its future. The National Chairman hopeful indicated that loyalty, courage and a determination to rebuild the NPP featured prominently throughout the engagements.
“I have heard pain. I have heard disappointment. I have heard frustration. But I have also heard hope and a strong desire that the NPP must rise again.”
Paul Awentami Afoko
Moreover, Mr Afoko stated that the consultations convinced him that the party still possesses the capacity to recover with disciplined leadership. He argued that listening to members before declaring his ambition demonstrated respect for the structures that have guided the NPP over the years.
Focusing on party unity and internal confidence, he suggested that every leadership contest should strengthen the organisation while preserving harmony among members.
In light of the consultations, the National Chairman hopeful formally announced that he would contest the office subject to the party’s rules. He reiterated that his campaign would commence only after the appropriate internal processes have been activated.
Unity And Strong Structures Needed For Political Comeback
New Patriotic Party National Chairman aspirant, Paul Awentami Afoko also outlined a three point strategy focused on reunion, rebuilding and reorganisation as key steps towards restoring the party’s strength. He argued that the NPP requires renewed commitment, stronger structures and collective effort to regain the confidence of Ghanaian voters.
The National Chairman hopeful explained that his decision to seek the position is influenced by his belief that the party has reached a significant stage in its political journey. According to Mr Afoko, his ambition is on helping the NPP recover and establish a stronger foundation for future electoral success.
Addressing his proposed approach, the politician introduced the Three Rs, which represent Reunite, Rebuild and Recapture power. He stated that the ideas were practical measures aimed at strengthening the party instead of serving as simple political statements.
Mr Afoko emphasised that unity would be essential for the NPP to regain its momentum. He indicated that internal divisions, unresolved disagreements and feelings of exclusion among some members could weaken the party’s ability to compete effectively.
“I am not coming to lead one faction against another. I am coming to help reconcile the party and build bridges across generations, regions and camps.”
Paul Awentami Afoko
Furthermore, he urged party members to reconnect with the principles that influenced the NPP tradition, including respect, discipline, tolerance, service and loyalty. The former National Chairman stated that the party’s history was built through the sacrifices of several individuals who endured hardships for democratic ideals and national development.
The second stage of his strategy, according to Mr Afoko, would involve reorganising the party’s internal structures to improve its grassroots strength. He argued that political parties succeed through proper planning, effective communication and strong coordination across constituencies and regions.
Meanwhile, the National Chairman hopeful recalled his previous tenure as National Chairman in 2014 and highlighted efforts he initiated to strengthen constituency structures. He explained that supporting local party organisations and improving coordination remained important lessons from his earlier leadership experience.
Additionally, Mr Afoko stated that political success depends on consistent work at the grassroots level. He noted that political education, credible data systems and disciplined messaging were necessary components of an effective organisation.
“Parties win through organisation. Parties win through strong structures, political education, constituency strength and respect for the grassroots.”
Paul Awentami Afoko
From his perspective, the NPP’s future success would depend on its ability to combine experience with renewed commitment from members at every level. He encouraged party supporters to protect the values and sacrifices that contributed to the formation and growth of the organisation.
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