Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, popularly known as Napo, has identified internal conflicts within the New Patriotic Party (NPP) as a key reason behind the party’s defeat in the 2024 general elections. Speaking candidly during a post-election meeting, the outgoing Minister for Energy and MP for Manhyia South expressed concern over voter apathy and the inability of party members to rally support at the grassroots level.
Voter Apathy and Internal Divisions
“MPs were begging people to go and vote, but the voters refused. That’s not about economic mismanagement; it’s about a deep-seated problem the party hasn’t addressed,” Napo stated. His remarks highlight a growing perception that disunity within the party has eroded its appeal among its base.
The NPP suffered significant losses in the parliamentary elections, losing several traditionally safe seats, including constituencies in the Ashanti Region, the party’s stronghold.
The Role of Factionalism
Dr. Opoku Prempeh attributed the party’s electoral woes to longstanding factional rivalries and internal disagreements: 
- Primaries and Candidate Selection: The contentious selection processes in the lead-up to the elections alienated key supporters, with some members refusing to campaign for the party’s candidates.
- Lack of Cohesion: Infighting between different factions within the party created a perception of instability, discouraging voters.
Challenges Beyond Internal Conflict
While internal issues played a role, critics argue that external factors, including the government’s handling of the economy, also contributed to the NPP’s defeat. Rising inflation, high unemployment rates, and controversies surrounding the financial sector cleanup created discontent among the electorate.
However, Napo contends that addressing these challenges would have been easier if the party had been united. “When the house is divided, even the best policies cannot save you,” he added.
Path to Recovery
Dr. Opoku Prempeh called for urgent reforms within the NPP to rebuild trust and cohesion:
- Healing Factional Divides: Creating platforms for dialogue and reconciliation among party members to foster unity.
- Reconnecting with the Grassroots: Engaging party supporters at the community level to address their concerns and restore their faith in the party.
- Accountability and Reform: Acknowledging mistakes and implementing structural reforms to strengthen the party ahead of future elections.
The Road Ahead
The NPP faces a critical moment in its political journey. As the party navigates the aftermath of its defeat, addressing internal divisions and reconnecting with disenchanted voters will be key to its recovery.
Dr. Opoku Prempeh’s candid assessment underscores the need for introspection and collective action if the NPP hopes to regain its footing in Ghana’s political landscape.
