21.2 C
London
Sunday, July 20, 2025

NPP must rethink January presidential primary – Dr. Ateku warns

A Political Science Lecturer at the University of Ghana, Dr. Jalilu Ateku, has advised the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to reconsider its decision to hold presidential primaries on January 31, 2026, warning that unresolved internal tensions could threaten party cohesion.

Speaking on Channel One TV’s Big Issue on Saturday, July 19, Dr. Ateku cautioned that electing a flagbearer while the party is still grappling with internal disputes could deepen cracks and lead to further disintegration within the party.

“When you elect the presidential candidate first, it has some advantage. But the fact is that you cannot be in an acrimonious situation, with people fighting here and there, and still proceed to elect someone. If you are not careful, you may experience some disintegration here and there,” he said.

His comments follow the confirmation by NPP General Secretary, Justin Frimpong Koduah, that the party will hold its presidential primaries on January 31, 2026. The decision was ratified by the party’s National Council following a recommendation from its Constitution Review Committee.

However, Dr. Ateku insists that the timing is ill-advised, especially if the party fails to resolve internal disputes before electing its next presidential candidate. According to him, the process must be grounded in consensus and fairness to ensure unity after the primaries.

“The best thing is that you resolve the issues and then put up a structure. When you can do that, then you can elect the candidate. If you elect the candidate without resolving the issues, the tension will continue. That is why I think they should rather have a rethink of their decision,” he said.

The NPP is currently holding its National Delegates Conference at the University of Ghana Stadium in Accra under the theme “Rebuilding Together with Our Values.”

The conference has drawn over 5,500 delegates and is focused on discussing over 50 consolidated motions aimed at reforming the party’s internal structures and preparing it for the 2028 general elections.

With growing calls for internal reforms and unity, Dr. Ateku’s caution adds to a growing chorus of voices urging the party to prioritise stability over speed in its electoral preparations.

Latest news
Related news