Include grassroots members in NPP delegate system – Richard Obeng

Former Western North Regional Minister, Richard Obeng, popularly known as Joojo Rocky Obeng, has called on the leadership of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to include grassroots members in the party’s delegate voting structure.

His appeal comes ahead of the NPP’s extraordinary delegates conference scheduled for July 19 at the University of Ghana Sports Stadium, where the party is expected to consider constitutional amendments.

Obeng also advocated for the inclusion of former polling station executives and electoral area coordinators in the delegate list.

He believes such a move will strengthen the party’s democratic foundation and ensure a more inclusive decision-making process.

“All executives vote at polling stations. Former polling station executives should not be left out. They are the foundation of our party. If we truly want to broaden the base and build a stronger party, they must be included,” he stated.

According to adomonline.com report on July 12, 2025, he emphasised the need for fairness and transparency as the party prepares for the 2028 general elections and warned against the use of undemocratic tactics to favour specific candidates.

“We should not find a bad way to elect someone. What matters is fairness, unity, and respect for everyone who wants to serve,” he said.

Obeng also echoed calls for unity within the party, similar to sentiments expressed by former Assin Central MP and NPP flagbearer hopeful, Kennedy Agyapong.

He noted that internal cohesion and respect for loyal party members, particularly those at the grassroots level would be vital if the party hopes to reclaim power in the next general elections.

Obeng, however commended the NPP’s National Council for its decision to allow all former national officers since 1992 to vote in the upcoming presidential primaries, describing the move as a positive step.

He urged the party to extend the same spirit of inclusiveness to all levels of its structure.

“As a political party in opposition, what we need most is patriotism. We need to bring everyone on board, especially our polling station executives, both past and present. They have worked hard and deserve a voice in deciding the future of our party,” he indicated.

Obeng’s call adds to growing demands within the party for broader participation and fairness in internal electoral processes.

MRA/EB

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