In a move aimed at preserving unity and fostering a peaceful atmosphere within the New Patriotic Party (NPP), the four presidential aspirants contesting in the party’s upcoming primary election have jointly signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
The signing ceremony took place during a meeting between the National Council of Elders and the aspirants on November 2, 2023.
The presidential aspirants, including Vice-President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, former Minister of Food and Agriculture Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto, and former Mampong MP Francis Addai-Nimoh, collectively signed the MoU.
The MoU outlines a series of commitments aimed at fostering a harmonious atmosphere within the NPP and preserving party unity.
The memorandum commits the aspirants to several key principles.
The candidates have pledged to accept the outcome of the
NPP’s Presidential Primary election, scheduled for November 4, 2023, and respect the results regardless of the outcome.
They have agreed to work together to maintain peace and unity within the NPP during and after the primary election. The aspirants have promised to avoid engaging in actions or rhetoric that could disrupt party unity.
As part of the agreement, the aspirants undertake not to leave or resign from the NPP, regardless of the primary election results. They commit to remaining active and dedicated members of the party.
The aspirants commit to diligently and conscientiously supporting the winner of the NPP’s presidential ticket.
This support will extend to the 2024 elections and efforts to secure a working majority in the next Parliament of the Republic of Ghana.
Any disputes or violations of the MoU will be subject to resolution within the NPP’s established internal dispute resolution mechanisms, in accordance with the party’s constitution and by-laws.
The MoU is effective from the date of signing and remains in effect until and after the announcement of the NPP’s presidential candidate for the 2024 elections.
The Chairman of the Council of Elders, in his opening remarks during the meeting, expressed concerns about the state of the party, highlighting the divisions that have emerged due to individual interests.
He emphasized the need for unity and called on all presidential aspirants to prioritize party cohesion and remain united after the upcoming presidential primary.
The signing of this MoU is seen as a significant step toward maintaining peace and harmony within the NPP as it moves closer to selecting its presidential candidate for the 2024 elections.
The agreement underlines the candidates’ commitment to democratic principles and party unity, which will be crucial in the upcoming election season.
Meanwhile, National Chairman of NPP, Stephen Ntim, has delivered a passionate call for unity and a shared vision among the party’s flagbearer aspirants as they approach the critical 2023 flagbearer election.
His message emphasized the importance of prioritizing the party’s interests over personal grievances, with a focus on the larger generational mandate.
Speaking at a media briefing, Ntim stressed that the NPP’s primary responsibility is to add value and build on the gains inherited, rather than undermining the party’s legacy.
He called for a strong stance against indiscipline within the party, highlighting the need to preserve the generational mandate and secure victory in the 2024 elections through discipline and cohesion.
Quoting the words of Dr. J.B. Danquah, Ntim reminded the audience of the party’s policy, which aims to “liberate the energies of the people for the growth of a property-owning democracy.”
This vision is grounded in the principles of life, freedom, and justice and seeks to enrich the lives, property, and liberty of every citizen.
The 2023 flagbearer election has been characterized by intense competition, and Ntim urged all aspirants to approach the forthcoming decision with a commitment to working together and supporting the eventual leader and flagbearer.
Emphasizing that there can only be one flagbearer at a time, Ntim warned against a lack of unity and internal cohesion, which he identified as a significant factor contributing to the party’s defeat in the 2008 general elections.
The National Chairman cautioned against any actions or behaviors that could lead the party down a path of apathy and disunity.
He reminisced about the enthusiasm and unity that characterized the party’s approach to the 1996 and 2000 elections, emphasizing the need to rekindle that same spirit.
The National Chairman called on the four flagbearer aspirants to commit to working as a team to ensure victory in 2024, even if they do not win on Saturday.
He stressed that rallying behind the ultimate winner is essential for promoting unity and healing the wounds that the internal contest may have opened.
Ntim acknowledged that the NPP’s main competition is within the party itself, stating that what stands in the way of a third consecutive electoral victory is the party’s actions and inactions.
He urged the party to reconnect with the passion to serve, a driving force behind the achievements of the party’s forebears.
He also pointed out that the alternative to an NPP government is concerning, as the opposition, the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has not presented any policy solutions to address the pressing issue of youth unemployment, a concern shared by governments worldwide.
Ntim emphasized the need to tackle indiscipline, apathy, and indifference within the party as a way forward.
He highlighted the success of the NPP’s one-district-one-factory (1D1F) policy, which has created jobs and economic opportunities for the youth.
Notably, the Ekumfi Juice Factory, which employs 1,500 people, is making inroads into international markets, including the United States and the United Kingdom.
Ntim expressed optimism that the NPP’s Ghana Beyond Aid Agenda can become a reality if the party retains power in 2025.
The National Chairman challenged the NDC to present its alternative to the 1D1F policy and emphasized the NPP’s strong track record in managing Ghana’s economy.
Despite current challenges, Ntim assured Ghanaians that the party is committed to revitalizing the economy and addressing the hardships of the present with a record of achievement as a testament to its capabilities.
