Political Scientist Dr Kwasi Amakye-Boateng has argued that the New Patriotic Party (NPP) will need to present a fresh political identity ahead of the 2028 general election, pointing to Awentami Paul Afoko as a possible part of that process.
The Senior Lecturer at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) said the NPP faces a difficult task in convincing voters to return to the party, particularly in light of what he described as improvements in Ghana’s economic indicators under President John Dramani Mahama.
Speaking to the media on Friday, October 2, Dr Amakye-Boateng said developments in inflation and the exchange rate could make it necessary for the NPP to strengthen its leadership and messaging ahead of the next election.
He questioned attempts to attribute the economic improvements largely to the government’s GoldBod policies, arguing that the explanation raised questions about why similar outcomes were not achieved when the NPP was in government.
According to him, the party therefore has “extra work to do” to convince voters that it offers a credible alternative.
He linked this challenge to Dr Mahamudu Bawumia’s record as Vice President under the Akufo-Addo administration, arguing that his involvement in the previous government could lead to questions about any new economic proposals he presents in the next election cycle.
“Bawumia’s integrity has been on the line because he participated in Akufo-Addo’s government,” he said.
Dr Amakye-Boateng said voters could question proposals that differ from policies implemented under the previous NPP administration and ask why such measures were not pursued while Dr Bawumia was in government.
“If Bawumia campaigns and tells the electorate about new policies he intends to bring, that would be compromised because people would ask him, ‘Why didn’t you do that when you were in the erstwhile NPP government?’” he said.
Against this backdrop, the political scientist said the NPP could benefit from changes to its internal leadership and identity.
He argued that a new leadership structure could help the party distance itself from its previous record while developing a different political message ahead of 2028.
“ With a new identity starting with the election of Awentami Paul Afoko, then they would be on a new trajectory that would appeal to the masses,” he said.
Dr Amakye-Boateng has previously spoken in support of Mr Afoko’s bid for the NPP National Chairmanship, saying the former chairman could help the party reconnect with disaffected and former members.
By:Rachael Djabakie