A pressure group belonging to the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has called for the dissolution of the National Executive Committee (NEC) following the Party’s defeat in the 2024 general election.
“The defeat of the NPP in the 2024 elections marks one of the darkest moments in the history of our Party…In light of this monumental failure, we demand the immediate resignation of the current leadership, including all campaign heads.”
At a press conference in Accra on Thursday, Gbande Nabin Yussif, Convener of the group, blamed the party leadership for failing to “develop and implement a winning strategy” in the December 7 polls.
The Concerned Patriots of Change of the NPP proposed the establishment of an interim committee to manage the Party’s affairs until congress was held to elect new leaders “capable of charting a fresh course” for the Party.
He cited poor planning, disorganisation, and lack of accountability by NEC as some factors of the “crushing defeat” on Election Day.
“Their abdication of responsibility has undermined the trust of party members and the Ghanaian electorate,” the Convener stated.
The Concerned Patriots of Change also called for “a comprehensive and independent investigation” into the root causes of this defeat and demanded answers to allegations of mismanagement of campaign funds.
“Key party stalwarts, who could have provided invaluable counsel and leadership, were marginalised during critical moments…Leadership exhibited incompetence, inexperience, and a blatant disregard for the concerns of the rank and file.
“We demand that the findings of this investigation be made public to ensure transparency. accountability, and trust restoration…only then can the Party’s integrity begin to heal.” Gbande noted.
The group pushed for the reinstatement of dismissed and suspended members of the Party to ensure “full participation in party activities.”
It also wants a reconciliation committee to be established to facilitate dialogue and restore trust between leadership and grassroots members.
“The time for healing is now. Our strength lies in our unity, and we cannot afford to remain divided…We strongly call on the National Council of Elders and National Executive Committee to urgently draft a timeline for internal elections to replace the failed leadership.
“Allowing the same individuals responsible for this crisis to remain in charge is akin to compounding the problem…New leaders will bring fresh perspectives, renewed energy, and the commitment needed to prepare for the next election cycle,” the group said.
In addition to other proposals, Gbande said a review of the NPP’s constitution would “address systemic flaws that hinder progress.”
He said the reforms should include the reintroduction of the ‘card system’ to maintain an accurate database of members to ensure transparency and accountability.
“Expansion of the Electoral College will allow all card-bearing members to vote in the election of executives. This reform will curb monetisation and empower grassroots participation.
“We call on the National Council, Council of Elders and all stakeholders to seize this moment to restructure and rebuild our Party together…
“Let us take the bold and necessary steps to reclaim the trust of Ghanaians and restore the NPP to its rightful place as the beacon of progress and prosperity,” he stated.
