The New Patriotic Party (NPP) must heal from its 2024 electoral defeat and rebuild confidence among members to reclaim power in 2028. This assertion comes from Emmanuel Korsi Bodja, a former Volta Regional Organiser of the NPP. He stressed that the party's challenges require a broad psychological and organisational reset, not just leadership changes.
Mr. Bodja made these remarks in Ho, Volta Region, as he launched his campaign for the NPP’s National Organiser position. He highlighted the importance of the ongoing internal elections, scheduled for October 2026, for the party's future. These elections, he warned, could either deepen existing divisions or lay the groundwork for renewed unity within the party. Both winners and losers from the internal contests need healing, he stated.
This call for internal healing and rebuilding reflects a common challenge for political parties after significant electoral setbacks. Such periods often lead to introspection about party structure, communication strategies, and grassroots engagement. The NPP's focus on internal reorganisation aims to address these issues ahead of the crucial 2028 general election. The party seeks to strengthen its base and present a united front to the electorate.
Mr. Bodja, a career organiser, emphasized that the healing process extends beyond resolving internal disagreements. It requires a change in mindset and conduct among party members. He noted that some members have not fully accepted the NPP's current status as an opposition party. "We are not in government; we are in opposition," he stated, urging a shift in how the party communicates and mobilises support.
The former Regional Organiser argued that a return to power requires more than national messaging. It must begin with rebuilding party structures and restoring confidence among ordinary members. These members form the foundation of the party’s electoral machinery. He advocated for a more voter-focused approach, strengthening engagement with communities rather than operating with a governing party mindset.
Mr. Bodja presented his extensive experience in grassroots mobilisation and party administration as key qualifications for the National Organiser role. He served 12 years at the regional level, including two terms as Regional Organiser. His experience also includes roles as Regional Research and Elections Officer and Dean of Regional Organisers. He also contributed to the party’s diaspora structures in the United States, helping establish a Tertiary Students’ Confederacy (TESCON) branch.
His work in the Volta Region, a historically challenging area for the NPP, demonstrated the importance of sustained grassroots engagement. He believes strategies that improved the party's visibility there can be replicated nationally. "If you can do this without resources, without expectations in the Western Region, if I get to Ashanti Region, it will be a hallelujah for us," he said, expressing confidence in his approach.
Former Volta Regional Chairman of the NPP, Kenwood Nuworsu, echoed the need for a major repositioning of the party. He urged delegates to elect national executives capable of fostering unity, inclusiveness, and confidence. Mr. Nuworsu, a former Deputy Minister, described Mr. Bodja as a creative and well-connected member. He appealed to Volta Region delegates to support Mr. Bodja’s national ambition, stating, "Let us push him there." The NPP’s internal reorganisation continues, with national elections scheduled for October 2026.