Paul Afoko, a New Patriotic Party (NPP) National Chairmanship aspirant, has urged delegates to elect the party’s next chairman based on competence, integrity, and experience. He made this call after filing his nomination at the NPP headquarters in Accra on Tuesday, August 25, 2026. This statement directly addresses internal party discussions suggesting that the next National Chairman should not originate from northern Ghana.
These discussions arose because the party’s presidential candidate, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, also hails from the northern region. Mr. Afoko respectfully disagreed with this geographical argument. He emphasized that the NPP’s constitution clearly defines the party as a national political organization. This constitution does not impose geographical restrictions on its leadership positions.
The NPP operates on a national basis, not as a collection of regional enclaves. This principle ensures that leadership roles are open to all qualified members, regardless of their geographical background. The party’s strength comes from its national reach and unified structure. Any attempt to introduce geographical barriers contradicts the party’s foundational principles.
Mr. Afoko, a former NPP National Chairman, stated that delegates should assess candidates on their leadership qualities. They must consider experience and the ability to unite and reorganize the party. This focus on merit is crucial for the NPP’s preparations for the 2028 general election. He urged delegates to avoid creating divisions that the party’s constitution does not support.
He also rejected any attempts to portray Dr. Bawumia as a leader representing only northern Ghana. Dr. Bawumia was elected to lead the entire New Patriotic Party, not just a specific region. Similarly, Mr. Afoko seeks to become the National Chairman of the New Patriotic Party of Ghana, not a regional chairman. This perspective reinforces the national mandate of both presidential and party leadership roles.
Mr. Afoko used the party’s elephant symbol to highlight his call for unity. He explained that the elephant needs strength across all its legs, representing all regions, to move forward effectively. A strong, united party improves its chances of returning to government in 2028. Geographical divisions weaken the party’s overall structure and its ability to campaign effectively.
He urged party members to avoid geographical divisions and instead focus on building a united national organization. This unity is essential for regaining the confidence of Ghanaians. The party’s primary task is to unite Ghana behind the New Patriotic Party, not to divide itself internally by geography. This strategic approach is vital for electoral success and national development.
The emphasis on merit over geographical considerations is a critical point for the NPP’s internal democracy. It ensures that the most capable individuals lead the party, fostering stronger governance and policy outcomes. The party’s ability to present a united front will significantly influence public perception and electoral performance. Delegates must weigh these factors carefully when making their choices for national leadership positions.
This debate highlights the ongoing challenge of balancing regional representation with meritocracy in political parties. The outcome of the NPP chairmanship election will set a precedent for future leadership contests. It will also demonstrate the party’s commitment to its constitutional principles and national unity. The decision will impact the party’s strategic direction and its capacity to mobilize support across all regions ahead of the next general election.