By: Evans Osei-Bonsu — Former National Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Mr. Awentami Paul Afoko, has officially declared his intention to contest the party’s upcoming national chairmanship elections, marking a dramatic return to the political frontline after nearly a decade away from active leadership.
In a statement issued from his Dzorwulu office in Accra, Mr. Afoko said his decision followed “extensive reflection and encouragement from well-meaning members, supporters, and stakeholders of the New Patriotic Party (NPP),” adding that he was “honoured to formally announce” his decision to contest for the position of National Chairman in the upcoming election of national officers.
“This decision has not been taken lightly,” he noted. “It comes after careful consideration and in response to the consistent calls for renewed leadership rooted in the founding values and democratic ideals of our Party.”
Mr. Afoko emphasized that his “commitment to the NPP has remained steadfast through the years,” stressing that “the time has come to contribute, once again, to the rebuilding and strengthening of our Party at this critical juncture.”
He recalled that “while the journey has not been without its trials,” he has “always chosen to prioritise the unity and progress of the NPP above all else.” “My focus now, as it has always been,” he added, “is on the future, one where our Party stands re-energised, inclusive, and better positioned to deliver on its promise to the Ghanaian people.”
Mr. Afoko also disclosed that in the coming weeks, he would “engage more broadly with Party faithful and the media to share my vision, ideas, and plans to lead the NPP with integrity, transparency, and a renewed sense of purpose.”
The former chairman ended his statement with a rallying appeal to the party’s base: “Let us look ahead together. God bless the NPP. God bless our dear country.”
Paul Afoko’s latest declaration rekindles memories of his turbulent tenure as National Chairman in 2014, which ended in a dramatic suspension by the party’s National Executive Committee in 2015 over allegations of misconduct and actions deemed inimical to the party’s interest.
Afoko, who was elected amid calls for reform and inclusivity, later challenged the decision in court, describing his suspension as unconstitutional and politically motivated. The High Court and subsequently the Court of Appeal, however, upheld the party’s decision, leaving him sidelined from party leadership.
Throughout that period, Afoko maintained that his actions were rooted in principle, insisting that “democracy within the NPP must be protected and upheld, no matter who is in charge.”
Source: Purefmonlinegh.com
