“In line with these constitutional provisions, it is the view of the NPP that Hopeson Adorye, Nana Ohene Ntow, Boniface Abubakar Saddique, and Yaw Buaben Asamoah have automatically forfeited their membership of the party. They are, therefore, no longer members of the party.”
New Patriotic Party
By the constitutional provisions outlined in the NPP’s constitution, specifically Article 3(1) (9), the issuance has ushered the cracks within the party to another level.
This forfeiture underscores the party’s commitment to upholding its constitution and highlights the consequences for members who endorse candidates outside the party’s fold. In employing the term “forfeiture,” it is emphasized that the actions of these members have led to their automatic loss of party membership.
The recent expulsion of these prominent members is a clear acknowledgment by the party of their actions. The leadership’s decision to take such measures sends a strong message about the party’s dedication to maintaining internal discipline. This action is particularly significant given the backdrop of a rift within the NPP stemming from the flagbearer election, which has raised concerns about favoritism and violence against supporters of certain aspirants.
The expelled members, now aligning themselves with Independent Candidate Alan Kyerematen, accuse the party of employing ‘mafia’ tactics in delegate elections. Their argument revolves around the perceived lack of genuine choices in candidate selection, eroding trust in the 30 year reign of the New Patriotic Party and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) duopoly in the Ghanaian politics. However, the response from the expelled members, especially Hopeson Adorye, indicates a lack of remorse and a determination to continue supporting their chosen candidate, Alan Kyerematen, despite the consequences.
Effectively addressing these nuanced preferences is crucial for the NPP to maintain unity. Striking a balance between addressing internal concerns influencing choices and emphasizing the broader party agenda of winning the 2024 General Elections is essential. This delicate balancing act is necessary to uphold party discipline and engage effectively with the diverse electorate in Ghana. The repercussions of these internal dynamics extend beyond party matters.
In their joint response, the four expelled members raised a critical question about the fast-changing political terrain, which is becoming more diverse and tolerant of varying views. Their concern questioned the party’s stance on members who engage in ‘skirt and blouse’ voting. While a quick response may be that the party cannot verify who did not vote for the party in either the parliamentary or presidential election, it brings to the fore the impact of suppressing dissenting views within a political party.
The 2020 election saw the NPP losing a significant number of parliamentary seats while narrowly winning the presidential seat. Many political analysts believe that the party continues to grapple with internal challenges that may have stemmed from the phenomenon of ‘skirt and blouse.’ In the last election, this phenomenon played out against the parliament, but predictions suggest it may heavily influence the presidential candidate in 2024.
The ‘skirt and blouse’ phenomenon challenges the NPP’s traditional party loyalty, known for its organizational strength. Members diverging in their support for presidential and parliamentary candidates introduce complexities that the party must navigate. Internal issues, candidate appeal, and dissatisfaction with certain party decisions may contribute to this divergence.
The expelled members advocate for a break from the established parties, Ghana faces the challenge of navigating a potential shift in its political landscape.
Whether the country is prepared for a third force or will reinforce its existing political framework remains an open question, one that could shape the narrative of Ghanaian politics in the upcoming elections.
Emphatically also, this open support and show of loyalty for Alan Kyerematen may encourage more people in the New Patriotic Party to voice out and come out for the new Movement.
Perhaps this is time for the Third force.
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