By:Kenneth Appiah Bani
Former National Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Paul Afoko, has officially declared his intention to contest for the party’s National Chairmanship position in the upcoming national officers’ election, marking a dramatic political comeback after a decade-long absence from the party’s frontline leadership.
In a statement titled “Declaration of Intention to Contest the National Chairmanship Position of the New Patriotic Party,”Mr. Afoko said his decision comes after extensive reflection and encouragement from party members and stakeholders who are calling for renewed leadership rooted in the founding values of the NPP.
“After extensive reflection and encouragement from many well-meaning members, supporters, and stakeholders of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), I am honoured to formally announce my intention to contest for the position of National Chairman in the upcoming election of national officers,” he stated.
According to Mr. Afoko, his motivation is to restore the NPP to its founding values, unity, and democratic principles, emphasizing that his decision was not made lightly but born out of a sense of duty to help strengthen the party.
“This decision has not been taken lightly. 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,” he explained.
Mr. Afoko reaffirmed his loyalty to the NPP despite his past challenges, noting that his focus remains on rebuilding and repositioning the party for future success.
“While the journey has not been without its trials, I have always chosen to prioritise the unity and progress of the NPP above all else. My focus now, as it has always been, is on the future one where our Party stands re-energised, inclusive, and better positioned to deliver on its promise to the Ghanaian people.”
He further revealed plans to engage with party members and the media in the coming weeks to share his vision, ideas, and plans to lead the NPP “with integrity, transparency, and a renewed sense of purpose.”
Paul Afoko’s political journey has been turbulent. He was suspended in 2015 as National Chairman following a decision by the NPP’s National Executive Committee at an emergency meeting in Accra. The suspension came after a recommendation from the Disciplinary Committee, following a petition by the Council of Elders that accused him of working against then-flagbearer Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s campaign ahead of the 2016 elections.
Despite the controversy, Afoko maintained his membership and has now re-emerged with a renewed determination to contribute to the party’s unity and progress.
Political analysts say Afoko’s comeback could reshape the dynamics of the upcoming NPP internal elections. Some observers believe his return could also deal a major blow to the newly formed United Party (UP), as his re-engagement signals that the NPP remains a politically attractive force.
“Paul Afoko’s announcement to rejoin and contest the national election is bad news and a big blow to the newly formed United Party (UP). His return shows that the NPP is still attractive,” one political commentator noted.
Mr. Afoko’s re-entry into active NPP politics is expected to spark intense debate within the party, as members assess his legacy, his call for reconciliation, and his vision for the future of the New Patriotic Party.
