The New Patriotic Party (NPP) National Council of the Elders has submitted a series of significant proposed amendments to the party’s constitution, seeking to address the underlying issues that contributed to their defeat in the 2024 general elections.
These amendments, aimed at strengthening the party’s foundation and democratic processes, are expected to be a key focus of deliberation at the NPP National Delegates Conference, scheduled to take place today, July 19, at the University of Ghana.
The NPP experienced an electoral setback in December 2024, with its presidential candidate, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, losing to the National Democratic Congress’s (NDC) John Dramani Mahama.
The NDC secured 56.55% of the popular vote and a commanding 184 out of 276 parliamentary seats, marking the NPP’s most significant loss in the Fourth Republic and ending their two terms in office.
This heavy defeat has prompted widespread calls for introspection and fundamental reforms within the party, as it looks towards the 2028 elections.
The submission by the National Council of the Elders forms part of a 59-point proposal to revise the party’s constitution.
Typically, the Council of Elders plays an advisory and mediating role within the party, often stepping in during times of crisis to guide the party back to its core principles.
The Council’s proposals focus on enhancing internal party democracy, fostering unity, and strengthening grassroots structures – themes that emerged strongly in post-election analyses of the NPP’s performance.
Below are the suggestions of the National Council of the Elders:
AMENDMENT PROPOSAL SUBMITTED BY THE NPP NATIONAL COUNCIL OF ELDERS
All members of the NCOE shall vote in ALL National Elections.
In addition to the Regional Representatives on the NCOE, the Council is allowed to nominate five (5) members for appointment to the Council based on distinguished service, support, and exemplary commitment to the advancement of the Party. This will be done from time to time.
All past Presidents, past Vice Presidents, and past National Chairmen will be inducted to NCOE at the end of their service to ensure the harnessing of their experiences to the Council.
The NCOE must not support or be seen to favour any candidate.
When in power, there shall be a mandatory quarterly meeting with the President where issues of concern will be discussed. This meeting will offer the President or the Presidential Candidate to give account of his/her stewardship for appropriate political counsel.
The NCOE shall be represented by five (5) of its members (Chairman, Vice Chairman, plus three others) on the National Council of the Party.
The NCOE shall be given an operational budget to carry out its functions.
The NCOE shall institute an annual nationwide conference to review the Party’s activities at all levels to secure the foundation upon which the party’s stability and strategic direction can be anchored.
The NCOE shall establish a Judicial Committee consisting of both lawyers and non-lawyers which shall act as the final appeal body within the party. The Committee shall apply wisdom to the law, ADR and no bias to resolve controversies and disputes.
The NCOE shall also be advisory to the National Council of the Party at all levels including the Flagbearer.
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Circulated by the General Secretary, Justin Kodua Frimpong
Upon election, the Flagbearer shall appear before the NCOE for advice and input into the campaign strategy and direction. Principles regarding the selection of Running Mate (gender, regional balance, religion, etc.)
The Flagbearer, upon selection/ election, shall be introduced to the NCOE by the National Chairman before the official outdooring.
The NCOE must be kept informed of the contents of the Flagbearer’s maiden speech.
The elected President must select ministers, chief executives, MMDCEs in consultation with the NCOE.
Below is the full 59-point constitution review proposal of the NPP.
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