He emphasized that the NPP’s defeat, both in the presidential and parliamentary races, was a clear departure from what would be considered a typical electoral outcome.
Reflecting on the election results, Boahen highlighted the party’s dismal performance, pointing to the number of parliamentary seats won, which was just over 80, compared to the overwhelming victory of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC).
“It is no small issue because it is not something normal nor ordinary,” he said in a recent interview.
Boahen also offered insight into what might have contributed to the NPP’s loss. He argued that the absence of military personnel at polling stations on election day played a significant role.
“I believe that if soldiers were deployed, the story would have been different in about fifty to sixty constituencies,” he noted.
Furthermore, the former NPP official criticized the party’s internal election process, particularly the delegate system, suggesting it hindered broader party engagement and participation.
He called for reforms within the party, including expanding the electoral college to encompass all card-carrying members.
Boahen also expressed concerns about the party leadership’s approach to criticism.
He felt that the NPP leadership had not been receptive to constructive feedback, particularly from members like himself.
In the election, NDC’s John Mahama emerged victorious, securing 6.3 million votes, while NPP’s Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia garnered 4.7 million. The NDC also dominated the parliamentary race, winning over 183 seats.