Hon. Kennedy Nyarko Osei, Member of Parliament for Akyem Swedru Constituency, has tabled ten major reform proposals aimed at restructuring the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to enhance efficiency, transparency, and inclusivity.
These proposals, which address key operational and structural challenges within the party, underscore the need for a modernized approach to governance and grassroots mobilisation.
Hon. Nyarko Osei first advocated for an immediate nationwide mass registration of New Patriotic Party members. This move, he argued, will ensure that every supporter is formally captured in the party’s database, enhancing inclusivity and accountability.
“There must be a compulsory monthly dues payment for every member of the party“, he proposed. This initiative aims to build a robust financial base for the party, reducing over-reliance on external donors and fostering a sense of responsibility among members.
The Akyem Swedru lawmaker further contended that only continuous paid-up members should be eligible to contest for any position within the party. This measure is intended to reward loyalty and commitment while discouraging opportunistic participation.
Expansion of the Electoral College
Furthermore, Hon. Kennedy Nyarko Osei called for the expansion of the electoral college to include all paid-up members of the party. By democratizing the voting process, this reform seeks to give every committed member a voice in electing party leaders.
He also posited that the position of the party’s Youth Organizer across all levels should be limited to only members of the Tertiary Student’s Confederacy (TESCON) of the New Patriotic Party. This is aimed at ensuring that the youth leadership reflects the vibrant and educated base of the party’s young supporters.
To enhance inclusivity, Hon. Nyarko Osei suggested expanding the election of the Youth Organizer position to allow all paid-up members of the party to vote. This will ensure broader participation and legitimacy in the selection process.
Streamlining Regional Operations
In a move to streamline regional operations, Hon. Nyarko Osei suggested replacing regional elections with functional working groups. This change is designed to foster collaboration and focus on results rather than political jockeying.
“We should replace the polling station executives with volunteers and working groups who will manage the activities of the party at the polling station levels.”
Hon. Kennedy Nyarkoh Osei, MP Akyem Swedru Constituency
He also proposed that candidates for the position of General Secretary must possess a minimum of 15 years of administrative and political experience. This is to ensure that the officeholder has the requisite expertise and maturity to manage the party’s affairs effectively.
Finally, Hon. Kennedy Nyarko Osei pointed out that the position of Communications Director or Officer should be subjected to elections.
By doing so, Hon. Nyarko Osei believes the party can ensure that the individual leading its communication strategy is both capable and broadly endorsed.
These reforms, if implemented, could mark a significant departure from the party’s traditional structure and practices.
Hon. Nyarko Osei’s proposals place a strong emphasis on decentralization, inclusivity, and accountability, which could energize the grassroots base and modernize the party’s operations.
The suggested transformation of polling station executives into working groups and the TESCON-centered Youth Organizer role highlights a focus on leveraging the energy and innovation of younger party members.
Meanwhile, the expanded electoral college and dues-paying system aim to deepen member engagement and financial independence.
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