The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has initiated a thorough review of its performance in the 2024 elections by establishing an 11-member committee chaired by former Speaker of Parliament, Prof. Mike Oquaye. This move reflects the party’s resolve to understand the factors behind its electoral loss and to strategize for the future.
The committee has been tasked with completing its work within three months and submitting a detailed report to the National Council. The General Secretary of the NPP, Justin Frimpong Kodua, outlined the committee’s terms of reference, which include a comprehensive review of the party’s internal elections, campaign strategies, and operational challenges. The committee will also propose actionable solutions to address the identified issues and improve the party’s prospects in future elections.
The 2024 elections marked a significant political shift as former President John Dramani Mahama was declared the winner, reclaiming the presidency after a closely contested race. The Electoral Commission (EC) announced on December 9 that Mahama secured a commanding 6,328,397 votes, representing 56.55% of the valid votes cast. His primary opponent, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia of the NPP, managed 4,657,304 votes, accounting for 41.61%.
Mahama’s victory not only brought him back to power but also delivered a resounding success for the National Democratic Congress (NDC). The party secured a decisive majority in Parliament, with over 180 seats confirmed, including key constituencies previously held by the NPP. This parliamentary dominance further strengthens Mahama’s mandate as he prepares to lead the nation once again.
The outcome of the elections has prompted the NPP to critically assess its performance. Losing both the presidency and parliamentary majority has raised pressing questions about the effectiveness of the party’s campaign strategy, grassroots mobilization, and internal cohesion. The establishment of the Prof. Oquaye-led committee is seen as a crucial step toward rebuilding the party’s strength and addressing internal challenges.
The NDC’s victory has also sparked discussions about the factors contributing to their success. Analysts have pointed to Mahama’s ability to galvanize support across diverse voter demographics, his focus on addressing economic hardships, and his emphasis on national unity as key elements of his campaign. Additionally, the NDC’s robust parliamentary performance has been attributed to its strategic targeting of swing constituencies and effective voter outreach.
For the NPP, the 2024 elections have underscored the need for introspection and reform. Party members and supporters have expressed concerns about internal divisions, resource allocation during the campaign, and the party’s ability to communicate its achievements to the electorate. The committee’s findings and recommendations are expected to provide a roadmap for addressing these issues and revitalizing the party.
As the NPP embarks on this process of self-examination, the political landscape in Ghana is undergoing significant change. Mahama’s return to power marks a new chapter in the nation’s governance, with high expectations for his administration to deliver on its promises. The NDC’s parliamentary majority also positions the party to drive its legislative agenda and implement key policy initiatives.
The NPP’s willingness to confront its challenges and seek solutions reflects its commitment to remaining a formidable political force in Ghana. The party’s leadership has emphasized the importance of unity and collaboration in navigating this critical period. Prof. Oquaye’s committee is expected to engage with party members at all levels, gathering insights and perspectives to inform its recommendations.
The 2024 elections have also highlighted broader trends in Ghana’s political landscape. Voter turnout, campaign dynamics, and the role of technology in electioneering have emerged as key areas of focus for political analysts and stakeholders. As the NPP reviews its performance, these factors will likely feature prominently in discussions about future electoral strategies.
Looking ahead, the NPP faces the dual challenge of rebuilding its internal structures and positioning itself as a credible alternative to the NDC. The findings of the Prof. Oquaye-led committee will play a pivotal role in shaping the party’s approach to these challenges. Party members and supporters are hopeful that the committee’s work will yield actionable insights and set the stage for a stronger and more united NPP.
Mahama’s return to office, coupled with the NDC’s parliamentary majority, has created a new political dynamic in Ghana. The coming months will be critical for both the ruling party and the opposition as they navigate this evolving landscape. For the NPP, the focus will be on learning from its setbacks, addressing internal divisions, and preparing for future electoral battles.
As Prof. Oquaye’s committee begins its work, the party’s leadership has called for patience and cooperation from all stakeholders. The three-month timeline for the committee’s report reflects the urgency of the task at hand, as the NPP seeks to chart a path forward in the wake of its 2024 electoral defeat.
The outcomes of this introspective process will have far-reaching implications for the NPP and Ghana’s political landscape. As the party seeks to rebuild and reposition itself, the insights gained from this review will be critical in shaping its future direction.
