Rebuilding the party, rethinking flagbearer selection – Arthur Kennedy on how NPP can bounce back in 2028

A prominent figure in the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Kobina Arthur Kennedy, has outlined a series of critical reforms he believes are necessary for the party to regain its strength and position itself for a successful comeback in the 2028 elections.

In a recent interview on GH One TV, Dr. Kennedy emphasised the urgent need for internal reforms to rebuild the party, restructure its processes, and reduce the influence of money in politics.

“We need to rebuild the party and change the way we select our flagbearer. Dr. Bawumia was supported by moneyed interests and powerful people who moved heaven and earth to make sure he became the candidate. The effect is that he will be the rear guard of the corrupt mafia and their illegal mining allies, so he will guard their backs for them", he stated.

Dr. Kennedy called for greater empowerment of the party’s grassroots, stating that ordinary party members should play a central role in selecting leadership.

“Every card-carrying member of the party should be allowed to vote. This will ensure that their voices are reflected in those who lead the party and those who become candidates in the future", he noted.

The former flagbearer aspirant also called for reforms aimed at limiting the influence of money in politics.

“We should try to demonetise our politics. It is about emphasising humility and bringing accountability. The purpose of getting into government is not to loot the government for private interests but to do public service. I think we have moved very far away from that", he explained.

Dr. Kennedy took a moment to reflect on the party's origins, lamenting the decline in leadership quality over the years.

“When the NPP was founded, there were people who pledged their fortunes and households. People took loans to build the party, and intellectuals brought ideas to the table,” he said.

He also recalled the leadership of prominent figures like Donkoh Fordjour, who once led the Ashanti Region with distinction, highlighting a contrast with what he described as the current leadership’s shortcomings.

Dr. Kennedy emphasised that the NPP must return to its founding principles of integrity, public service, and grassroots inclusivity in order to rebuild the party’s credibility and prepare for the challenges of the 2028 election.

JKB/EB

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