After a successful conference by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) over the weekend, I would like to reflect on two amendments that will deepen democracy in our political landscape.
I have long advocated for the separation of government from the party. The party should stand strong on its own, without the daily interference of the President.
The party must be robust enough to point out policies by the government that may make it unpopular. After all, when the government is no longer in power, the political party is left to take the blame for any shortcomings.
The two motions passed at the conference, which set us on the path to creating a strong party, are Motions 35 and 39.
Motion 35: Amend Article 10 to make the National Chairperson the leader of the party, eliminating the existing ambiguity.
Motion 39: Amend Article 10(10) to remove the President as a member of the Steering Committee. The Steering Committee is responsible for the day-to-day decision-making of the party.
Some individuals were not pleased with Motion 39, but I genuinely believe it is the best decision for an independent party. The President runs Jubilee House, while the Chairperson manages the party office at Adabraka. Let’s not forget that the Steering Committee reports to the National Executive Committee (NEC), where the President is a member.
Party executives should work diligently to create a self-sufficient political party and develop innovative ideas to raise funds to operate effectively. When you rely on the presidency for funding to pay party staff, how can you expect to make independent decisions that hold the presidency accountable?
The NPP is embarking on a new journey, one that will ensure the survival of this party for the next 50 years.
My two cents,
Kwadwo Poku
Voice of the Youth
