On August 11, the Ashanti Region of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) witnessed a notable display of internal disunity as several regional executives boycotted the inauguration of the party’s regional campaign team.
The event, held at Rattray Park in Kumasi, was intended to kickstart the party’s campaign efforts for the upcoming elections but was marred by the absence of key figures.
Several prominent executives led the boycott, including Francis Adomako (Regional Organizer), Raphael Patrick Sarfo (Regional Youth Organizer), Patrick Acheampong (First Vice Chairman), and the Second Vice Chairwoman.
Their absence was a significant blow to the event, given their assigned roles in the party’s campaign activities.
Despite the no-show, the ceremony was attended by several high-profile party members, such as Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh (Vice Presidential Candidate), Akosua Frema Opare (Chief of Staff), Osei Kyei Mensah Bonsu (Chairman of the NPP Manifesto Committee), and Dr. Osei Afriyie Akoto (former Minister of Agriculture).
The disgruntled executives have raised concerns about being sidelined by the Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, who alleges he makes decisions without proper consultation.
Despite attempts at mediation by National Executives, these issues have yet to be resolved, leading to the current friction within the party.
During the inauguration, Chairman Wontumi urged the newly appointed campaign team members to approach their tasks tactfully to meet the party’s expectations.
However, the absence of key executives and the underlying tensions highlighted the party’s challenges.
Party members from various constituencies, including Manhyia South, North, Bantama, and Suame, expressed deep concern about the implications of this internal division.
Some delegates pointed out that in the 2008 elections, despite a favourable economy, the party failed to secure a win.
With the current economic challenges and intense opposition pressure from the NDC, the party’s fragmented state could further jeopardize its chances in the upcoming elections.
In light of these concerns, there have been calls for the General Secretary to address the internal rifts and work towards achieving a united front before the elections.
The ongoing discord could significantly impact the party’s cohesion and campaign effectiveness, raising questions about their ability to present a robust and unified stance against their competitors.
