Eugene Boakye Antwi, a New Patriotic Party (NPP) General Secretary aspirant, has pledged to restore a GHS 5,000 monthly stipend for each constituency if elected. This commitment aims to provide financial support directly to party structures at the grassroots level.
Mr. Boakye Antwi, former Member of Parliament for Subin and Deputy Minister of Works and Housing, made this promise while addressing delegates in Kumasi. He believes this stipend will empower constituency executives and representatives. The financial injection is intended to enhance the party's operational capacity and outreach efforts. This initiative targets strengthening the NPP's base ahead of the crucial 2028 general elections.
This proposal comes as the NPP faces significant challenges, including the loss of 50 parliamentary seats in the last elections. The party currently holds a slim majority in Parliament, with the National Democratic Congress (NDC) controlling a substantial number of seats. Restoring financial support to constituencies could be seen as a strategy to re-energize party members and improve local mobilization. Such measures are often employed by political parties to maintain loyalty and operational efficiency at the local level, especially in competitive electoral environments.
Mr. Boakye Antwi emphasized the critical need for unity and discipline within the party. He stated that without discipline, the party cannot achieve its goal of annexing power in 2028. He also expressed concerns about the current administrative setup at the NPP Secretariat, calling for a change in leadership. His 'Unite Agenda' seeks to restructure the party's base and modernize its machinery. This aims to restore lost trust and confidence among the electorate, which is vital for electoral success.
The aspirant's campaign team members echoed these sentiments. Mr. Kennedy Kwasi Kankam, former MP for Nhyiaeso, stressed that a political party's sole aim is power. He called for the election of a 'firebrand' General Secretary to establish solid party structures. Mr. William Owuraku Aidoo, former Deputy Minister for Energy, added that the NPP is at a crossroads. He highlighted the need for a courageous and experienced leader like Mr. Boakye Antwi to navigate these challenges. These statements underscore the perceived urgency for internal reforms and strategic leadership within the NPP.
The proposed GHS 5,000 monthly stipend per constituency represents a direct financial commitment to the party's grassroots. This could significantly impact the operational budgets of the 275 constituencies across Ghana. The total annual cost of this pledge would amount to GHS 16.5 million (GHS 5,000 x 275 constituencies x 12 months). This substantial investment aims to ensure that local party offices are well-resourced. It would enable them to effectively engage with voters and implement party programs. Such financial backing is often crucial for maintaining a strong presence in all electoral areas.
The implications of this pledge are far-reaching for the NPP's internal dynamics and future electoral prospects. If implemented, the stipend could boost morale and activity among constituency executives. It might also influence the outcome of the General Secretary election, as delegates may favor candidates offering tangible benefits. Observers will watch how this financial promise resonates with party members and whether it translates into improved party cohesion. The success of such a strategy will depend on its consistent implementation and its ability to foster genuine unity. Ultimately, this move aims to position the NPP strongly for the 2028 elections, particularly in securing a parliamentary majority and the presidency.