The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has set January 31, 2025, as the date for its much-anticipated presidential primary,
signaling the start of internal efforts to regroup ahead of the 2028 general elections. The announcement followed a decisive National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held at the Alisa Hotel in Accra on June 17, 2025.
In the absence of the party’s national chairman, who was unavailable due to health concerns, Vice Chairman Butey presided over the meeting. The gathering drew senior party members, advisors, and regional leaders who came together to chart a fresh course for the NPP following its 2024 electoral defeat.
A Strategic Move—Though Its Timing Raises Questions
One of the key outcomes of the NEC session was the early scheduling of the primary election to choose a new presidential candidate. While some within the party view this as a proactive strategy to give their future flagbearer a longer runway to build momentum, others are puzzled by the decision to elect a candidate three years ahead of the next national vote. The timing has sparked mixed reactions and fueled speculation over the party’s internal direction.
Responding to 2024 Loss: Internal Review and Reform
The council also spent significant time discussing the report submitted by the Ocquaye Committee—an internal body tasked with analyzing the factors behind the NPP’s 2024 loss at the polls. Committee recommendations focused on structural challenges, electoral strategy missteps, and communication failures.
Discussions during the NEC meeting reportedly centered on reforms designed to reposition the party, including proposed amendments to the party’s constitution and strategies to reinvigorate grassroots structures. Party leadership stressed the importance of swift implementation to rebuild trust among its members and reconnect with disillusioned voters.
Contestants Begin to Emerge
With the date for the primary now set, two prominent NPP figures have expressed their intentions to lead the party into the 2028 election.
Kennedy Agyapong, a sitting MP and well-known businessman, has been vocal about his desire to see the party embrace change. He has been critical of the NPP’s recent direction and has positioned himself as the face of renewal, arguing that his candidacy would rejuvenate the party's appeal.
Also in the running is Bryan Acheampong, a former Minister for National Security and current MP. While Acheampong has not yet publicly laid out his campaign message, insiders suggest that his pitch will be based on continuity, competent leadership, and a focus on national stability.
A Party at a Crossroads
As preparations get underway for the January 2025 primary, the NPP faces a critical turning point. The leadership contest may either strengthen the party’s unity or expose deeper rifts, depending on how events unfold.
With stakes high and voter trust to rebuild, both party loyalists and political observers will be paying close attention to how the internal race shapes the NPP’s future—and its chances of returning to power in 2028.
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