In the current climate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), few can claim to pursue accountability with unblemished hands. Since assuming power in 2020, the NPP has navigated one of the most severe global crises in recent history, marked by the COVID-19 pandemic and a series of significant international challenges. This tumultuous period resulted in a negative global GDP growth in 2020 and unprecedented inflation rates worldwide.
The dual crises of public health and economic turmoil have been likened to the devastating impacts of the 1918-1920 influenza pandemic and the Great Depression from 1929 to 1939. Indeed, no Ghanaian administration has encountered a more formidable challenge than the one faced by the NPP from 2020 onwards.
Since that time, approximately 80% of incumbent governments across the globe have experienced downfall. It is clear that the crisis has significantly exposed the weaknesses within the NPP, leading to project delays, a decline in government revenue, and widespread economic hardship, ultimately culminating in the party’s substantial defeat in the 2024 elections.
I can assert with confidence that the party’s leadership was acutely aware of the pressing need for reform even before the Flagbearership Contest in 2023. The NPP’s internal struggles, characterised by infighting, a weak connection between leadership and grassroots members, and a tendency towards self-interest among certain leaders, have been starkly revealed by the crisis and the subsequent electoral loss.
In light of this, there are voices within the party calling for accountability from those responsible for the significant defeat in 2024. However, I firmly believe that such calls are misguided, as the blame for our loss is widespread. From the influence of monetised delegates to the prevalence of self-serving executives at various levels, and the critical missteps made during the campaign by key figures, it is imperative to remember the admonition of Jesus in John 8:7-8: “He who is without sin should cast the first stone.”
According to the esteemed Konrad Adenauer Foundation, a staggering 81% of Ghanaians attribute our electoral loss to our failure to manage the economy effectively, resulting in considerable hardship for the populace.
Therefore, I respectfully urge all party members engaged in internal campaigns to focus on the future rather than engage in debates about who is to blame. We must prioritise discussions on how to enhance the NPP’s brand, lead us to victory in upcoming elections, and govern Ghana effectively.
Attempting to seek justice with dirty hands will yield no fruitful results.
