The Member of Parliament for Tamale North, Alhassan Suhuyini, has attributed the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) resounding defeat in the 2024 general elections to what he described as their abysmal performance in government. According to Suhuyini, the NPP’s governance over the past four years provoked widespread anger among Ghanaians, which played a significant role in their loss at the polls.
The December 7 elections saw the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and its flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, secure a landslide victory, polling over six million votes. In contrast, the NPP’s presidential candidate, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, managed just over four million votes. The NDC also claimed a dominant majority in Parliament, winning more than 180 seats.
Speaking on The Big Issue on Channel One TV on December 14, Suhuyini did not mince words about the NPP’s shortcomings, noting that their leadership style alienated voters and created deep dissatisfaction within the electorate.
“Yes, the NPP was abysmal in government. Their style of leadership in many instances provoked people, and I am sure it is that provocation that has manifested in the endorsement that the NDC got,” Suhuyini remarked.
A Mandate for Reflection
Suhuyini emphasized that while the NDC’s victory is a cause for celebration, it also comes with immense responsibility. He cautioned his party to move past the jubilation and focus on addressing the challenges facing Ghanaians.
“This is a victory that requires reflection. The funfair should be over by now. We need to understand the level of responsibility that has been placed on His Excellency the President’s shoulders and, by extension, the shoulders of the NDC,” Suhuyini said.
He urged the NDC to recognize that the high expectations of Ghanaians mean there is little room for complacency. The margin of victory, he noted, should not distract from the pressing issues that need to be addressed.
Dissatisfaction with NPP Governance
The NPP’s loss has been widely attributed to several factors, including economic challenges, controversial policies, and perceived insensitivity in leadership. Over the past four years, the party faced mounting criticism for failing to address the concerns of ordinary Ghanaians, particularly in areas such as unemployment, inflation, and the cost of living.
Suhuyini argued that the NPP’s inability to connect with the electorate and provide solutions to their problems created an atmosphere of discontent. This dissatisfaction, he said, ultimately translated into a significant loss of support for the ruling party.
In addition to the presidential defeat, the NPP’s parliamentary losses further underscored the electorate’s disapproval. Regions that were once considered strongholds for the NPP witnessed a dramatic shift, with many voters either switching allegiance or abstaining from voting altogether.
The NDC’s Challenge Ahead
While the NDC’s victory is a testament to their appeal among voters, Suhuyini warned that the party must be prepared to meet the high expectations placed upon them. He stressed that Ghanaians are looking to the NDC for solutions to the challenges that plagued the nation under the NPP’s administration.
“The margin of victory should not let us lose sight of the fact that expectations are also high. This is a mandate for change, and Ghanaians expect us to deliver,” Suhuyini stated.
He urged the NDC to prioritize policies that address key concerns such as youth unemployment, economic stability, and improved living standards. Failure to deliver on these promises, he cautioned, could lead to a similar fate in future elections.
Lessons for the NPP
For the NPP, the 2024 elections serve as a wake-up call to reassess their approach to governance and voter engagement. Political analysts have pointed to the party’s inability to retain its traditional support base, particularly in urban and peri-urban areas, as a major factor in their loss.
Moving forward, the NPP will need to rebuild trust with the electorate by addressing internal divisions, crafting a clear and compelling vision for the future, and demonstrating a genuine commitment to the needs of Ghanaians.
A New Political Landscape
The outcome of the 2024 elections marks a significant shift in Ghana’s political landscape. With the NDC now holding a commanding majority in Parliament and the presidency, the party has a unique opportunity to implement its vision for the country. However, this also comes with the challenge of managing heightened expectations and delivering tangible results.
As the NPP reflects on their loss and the NDC prepares to govern, Ghanaians are watching closely. The next four years will be critical in shaping the nation’s trajectory and determining the future of its democracy.
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