The New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) stunning defeat in the 2024 elections has left many wondering what went wrong.
A recent investigative report by the former Majority Leader, and Suame MP, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu Committee, presented to Ashanti Regional Chairman Bernard Antwi Boasiako, provides a detailed post-mortem analysis of the party’s performance.
According to the report, a study conducted in all 47 constituencies in the Ashanti Region, which has traditionally been the NPP’s stronghold, revealed several key factors that contributed to the party’s poor showing.
The study employed both qualitative and quantitative methods, gathering data from 2,559 respondents.
Key Factors Contributing to the NPP’s Defeat
– Delegate System: The current delegate system of selecting party leaders was cited as a major cause of the party’s poor performance. Respondents felt that this system was flawed and led to the selection of unpopular candidates.
– Economic Hardship: The general economic hardship in the country during the period under review was another significant factor. Many respondents felt that the government had failed to address the economic challenges facing the country.
– Perception of Corruption: The perception of corruption within the party and government was also a major issue. Respondents felt that the party had failed to address corruption and that this had eroded trust in the party.
– Leadership Style: The leadership style of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo was also criticized. Respondents felt that the President’s leadership style was single-minded and intransigent, which had alienated some party members and supporters.
– Family Control: The perception that the government was controlled by the President’s family was another issue that resonated with respondents. Many felt that this had led to nepotism and favoritism, which had undermined the party’s credibility.
– Operational Coordination: Ineffective operational coordination on election day was also cited as a major factor. Respondents felt that the party’s operational machinery had broken down, leading to a poor showing at the polls.
– Infrastructure Development: The perception that the President’s government had neglected the Ashanti Region in terms of infrastructure development, especially roads, was another issue that resonated with respondents.
– Party Infighting: The acrimony within the party, including conflicts in the constituency parties, was also a major factor. Respondents felt that these conflicts had undermined the party’s unity and cohesion.
Way Forward
The report’s findings provide a clear roadmap for the NPP to regain its footing.
By addressing the issues highlighted in the report, the party can begin to rebuild and reposition itself for future elections.
This will require a concerted effort to address the party’s internal conflicts, improve its operational coordination, and reconnect with its grassroots supporters.
Ultimately, the NPP’s defeat in the 2024 elections provides an opportunity for the party to reflect on its strengths and weaknesses and to chart a new course for the future.
By learning from its mistakes and addressing the issues highlighted in the report, the party can emerge stronger and more united, ready to face the challenges of future elections.
