Former New Patriotic Party (NPP) Constituency Chairman for Afigya Kwabre South, Odeneho Kwaku Appiah, popularly known as COKA, has called on members of the party to remain steadfast in safeguarding the party’s brand as it reorganises after its defeat in the 2024 general elections.
Speaking during a radio interview in Bekwai, Ashanti Region, COKA cautioned that the NPP’s image is under pressure from internal divisions and social media attacks by party stalwarts.
He stressed that the party’s most valuable asset remains its brand, built over the years on integrity, competence, and a commitment to the founding ideals.
“The NPP is indeed reorganising after a heavy defeat in 2024. The truth is that the Party is in a difficult situation now, with many interest groups working to dent its image for parochial interests. Any seasoned politician knows that the NPP’s greatest asset is its brand, and every loyal member must work to protect it at all costs,” he emphasised.
Calls for decency in internal campaigns
COKA expressed worry about the nature of internal campaigning within the NPP, describing the personal attacks on senior members as counterproductive.
“We must not allow the NPP’s brand to be destroyed simply because one person or an individual wants to lead the party,” he said, urging decorum in political discourse.
Lessons from 2024 defeat
Reflecting on the party’s electoral loss, he revealed that the leadership has conducted an introspective review of the causes of defeat.
According to him, research showed that apathy stemming from a lack of patronage and inclusivity was a major factor.
He welcomed the recent reforms that give former constituency and regional executives, ex-parliamentary candidates, and MPs a stake in party decision-making, describing it as a crucial step towards strengthening internal structures and promoting unity.
Strategic ambiguity on flagbearership
When asked about his preferred choice for the 2028 flagbearer, COKA remained diplomatic. “I will vote for the person who will win the 2028 general elections,” he said.
“I will not disclose it here because I want to be an NPP officer who will be able to call those who lose to also come to the region and help our 2028 campaign.”
Focus on Ashanti Region recovery
COKA, however, expressed confidence in the party’s ability to recover lost ground, particularly in the Ashanti Region, where the NPP lost key constituencies such as Adansi Asokwa and Akrofuom to the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC).
“It was sad that we lost some seats to the NDC. We did our research, and we know what happened. I have a plan, but I won’t discuss it here. I will discuss it with the party people,” he disclosed.
“NPP is a spirit”
Despite the party’s current challenges, COKA said he remains optimistic about its resilience.
“The NPP is a spirit, and in due time, the party will overcome its challenges. I urge all members to conduct themselves in ways that allow the rank and file to work together to build a party truly responsive to the needs of Ghanaians,” he concluded.
