A former National Organizer aspirant of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and ex-Chairman of the party’s Diaspora Mobilization Team in Pennsylvania, USA, Bright Essilfie Kumi, has called on the leadership of the party to begin a comprehensive reconciliation and rebuilding process from the polling station level up to the national front.
Speaking in the wake of the party’s defeat in the 2024 general elections on Atinka TV’s “Oman Mu Nsem” show hosted by Nana Owoahene Acheampong, Bright Essilfie Kumi stated that while the NPP managed only 41.61% in the presidential polls, all hope is not lost—provided the party undertakes deep introspection and reforms.
According to him, many grassroots members and loyalists were neglected during the party’s time in power, which contributed significantly to its electoral misfortunes. “We always say we have the men, but those men are not given the space to operate. Political hatred, exclusion, and failure to reshuffle the government hurt the party,” he emphasized.
The former diaspora chair, who has been an active member of the NPP since 1996 and has held various leadership roles both in Ghana and abroad, advised that reconciliation and unity must start from the base.
“Committees should be set up to listen to party members and find lasting solutions. Let’s not repeat our mistakes,” – he warned.
He also criticized the monetization of internal party elections, saying it has corrupted the selection process at all levels—from polling stations to national leadership. “Politics in Ghana has become an auction. Positions go to the highest bidder, not the most competent. This has weakened the very foundation of our party,” he lamented.
Touching on the role of youth in the party, Mr. Essilfie Kumi expressed concern about the marginalization of TESCON and other volunteer groups who play vital roles during election campaigns. He advocated for proper funding and voting rights for all 15 TESCON branches in national party decisions. “The party depends on them every election cycle, yet we neglect them afterwards. That must stop.”
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He further called on the NPP to maintain a national development agenda that transcends partisan politics. “We need a progressive national plan that prioritizes Ghana, not just political gains. We must build a party database to track and reward loyal contributors,” he added.
The former diaspora chairman also noted that the party leadership failed to respond to warning signs of decline. “The NPP was heading into opposition three years ago, but no one listened. There must be a national monitoring mechanism to identify and resolve issues from the grassroots up.”
Mr. Essilfie concluded by urging the party to revisit its constitution and reform its internal processes, including how leaders are elected and how volunteer groups are integrated into the party’s broader vision.
“Let’s fix ourselves, listen to our people, and return to power stronger and united,” he said.
Ghana|AtinkaOnline.com| Barimah K. Saakwa