Dr. Hafiz Bin Salih, a former Upper West Regional Minister, has issued a direct warning to the New Patriotic Party (NPP). He stated that selecting party executives based on wealth, rather than loyalty and competence, will weaken the party before the 2028 general election.
This practice, which Dr. Bin Salih calls an “existential threat,” risks making the NPP poor in loyalty, even if it has money. He argues that prioritizing financial influence over dedication undermines the party's core values and its ability to connect with ordinary voters. This trend could lead to significant internal divisions and reduced public trust.
This warning comes as Ghana prepares for the next general election in 2028, a critical period for political parties. The NPP, like other major parties, faces the challenge of maintaining internal cohesion and public confidence. Dr. Bin Salih's comments highlight a broader concern about the increasing role of money in Ghanaian politics, a trend that can distort democratic processes and alienate citizens. This issue has been a recurring theme in political discourse, with many observers noting the potential for financial power to overshadow genuine public service.
“When wealth becomes the primary yardstick for choosing our executives, the party itself becomes poorer,” Dr. Bin Salih wrote on his Facebook page. He emphasized that the NPP's future depends on delegates prioritizing competence, loyalty, and commitment above all other considerations. He believes that ignoring these principles will lead to long-term damage to the party's structure and appeal.
Dr. Bin Salih identified three key dangers if this trend continues. First, long-serving organizers feel sidelined by affluent newcomers who lack a history of local service. Second, while money can buy visibility, it cannot buy genuine fellowship with ordinary voters. Third, financial resources cannot replace strategic planning, conflict resolution, or effective policy articulation. He warned that continuing down this path is to “throw caution to the wind,” risking the party's ability to compete effectively in 2028.
To restore the NPP's strength, Dr. Bin Salih urged a return to merit-based selections. He advised delegates to assess aspirants based on their ability to manage the party and outmanoeuvre opponents. He also stressed the importance of their capacity to mobilize people's time and energy, rather than just distributing cash. Furthermore, he highlighted the need to consider sacrifices made for the party during opposition, willingness to listen to foot soldiers, and a proven track record of local service. These criteria, he believes, are essential for rebuilding an authentic and unified front.
The former minister argues that the NPP's legacy of “political resilience, intellectual fortitude, and community-first principles” is being replaced by a “transactional political culture.” This shift weakens the party and undermines its credibility with voters, making it harder to win future elections. The implications are significant for the NPP's electoral prospects in 2028. If the party fails to address these concerns, it risks losing the support of its grassroots base and appearing out of touch with the electorate. This could pave the way for opposition parties to gain an advantage.
Decision-makers within the NPP will need to seriously consider Dr. Bin Salih's warning. The party's ability to present a unified and credible front will be crucial for the upcoming elections. Delegates and party elders are now faced with the task of prioritizing long-term party health over short-term financial gains. The response to this internal critique will likely shape the NPP's strategy and leadership selection processes in the coming months.