NPP must end internal fighting

Ghana's democracy thrives when both the government and the opposition perform their constitutional responsibilities effectively. As the largest opposition party, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has an important duty not only to reorganize after electoral defeat but also to provide constructive criticism, credible alternatives, and strong oversight of the government.

Instead of allowing internal divisions to dominate public attention, the party should unite and focus on helping build a stronger Ghana.

The Historical Roots of the NPP
The NPP traces its political heritage to the Danquah-Busia-Dombo tradition, one of Ghana's oldest democratic political traditions, an opinion paper by Mr Judah Augustine Appiah, an ICT Expert and Social Advocate and copied to Modern Ghana News stated.

This tradition emerged from the United Gold Coast Convention (UGCC), which was founded by leading nationalists including Dr. J.B. Danquah. After independence, several political movements carried forward the ideals of constitutional democracy, the rule of law, individual freedom, and private enterprise.

Among the prominent figures who shaped this tradition were Baffour Akoto, founder of the National Liberation Movement (NLM), S.D. Dombo, Kofi Abrefa Busia, Victor Owusu, William Ofori Atta (Paa Willie), and R.R. Amponsah.

Another influential figure was Nii Noi Obetsebi-Lamptey, one of the "Big Six" and a leading nationalist who contributed significantly to Ghana's struggle for independence and democratic governance.

Following years of military rule, leaders of this political tradition came together in 1992 to establish the New Patriotic Party (NPP), with the objective of promoting democracy, economic freedom, good governance, and respect for the rule of law.

The NPP's Electoral Journey
After losing the 1992 and 1996 elections, the NPP reorganized and achieved a historic victory in the year 2000 under the leadership of John Agyekum Kufuor. This marked Ghana's first peaceful transfer of power from one elected government to another under the Fourth Republic.

The party retained power after winning again in 2004. Following two electoral defeats in 2008 and 2012, the NPP returned to government in 2016 under Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and secured re-election in 2020.

These victories reflected the confidence many Ghanaians placed in the party's policies and leadership at different periods.

The Kufuor Administration: Achievements and Challenges

President John Agyekum Kufuor's administration is widely remembered for strengthening Ghana's democratic institutions and improving the country's international reputation.

Some of the major achievements included:
The National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), which expanded access to healthcare.

School Feeding Programme to support basic education.

Significant investments in road infrastructure.

Relative macroeconomic stability during much of his tenure.

Ghana's successful attainment of lower middle-income status.

Improved relations with international development partners.

However, his administration also faced criticism over allegations of corruption involving some public officials, concerns about unemployment, and uneven development across parts of the country. While many praised his leadership, others believed more could have been done to reduce poverty and improve public services.

The Akufo-Addo Administration: Achievements and Challenges

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo introduced several major policy initiatives that received both praise and criticism.

Among the widely recognized achievements were the following:

The Free Senior High School (Free SHS) policy, which expanded access to secondary education.

One District, One Factory (1D1F), aimed at promoting industrialization, which was poorly organized.

Planting for Food and Jobs, designed to boost agricultural production.

Expansion of road infrastructure.
Digitalization initiatives, including improvements in public services, digital payments, and national identification systems.

At the same time, the administration faced significant challenges, including:

High inflation and increased cost of living, particularly during the global economic shocks associated with the COVID-19 pandemic and international supply disruptions.

The domestic debt restructuring programme.
Public concerns over corruption allegations and demands for stronger accountability.

Youth unemployment and economic hardship are affecting many households.

Supporters argue that several economic difficulties were influenced by global events, while critics maintain that domestic policy decisions also contributed to these challenges.

The Way Forward
Every political party experiences disagreements after losing power. Such moments should become opportunities for reflection, renewal, and unity rather than prolonged internal conflict.

The NPP should concentrate on rebuilding trust among its members, developing practical policy alternatives, and performing its constitutional responsibility as a strong opposition party.

Constructive scrutiny of government policies, informed debate in Parliament, and engagement with citizens are essential ingredients of Ghana's democratic development.

Likewise, the government of the day should remain open to criticism, listen to alternative ideas, and govern in the interest of all Ghanaians rather than partisan interests.

Conclusion
Ghana benefits when both the government and the opposition place the national interest above political rivalry. The NPP's rich political history demonstrates resilience, democratic commitment, and the ability to recover from setbacks.

Today, the party has another opportunity—not through internal battles, but through unity, constructive opposition, and responsible leadership.

The future of Ghana depends not on which political party wins every argument, but on leaders who put country before party. A united opposition, an accountable government, and an informed citizenry are the foundations of a stronger democracy and a more prosperous Ghana.

By Judah Augustine Appiah
ICT Expert and Social Advocate