Parliamentary Candidate Search Will Be A Great Step

I have watched a video in which our indefatigable Flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, spoke about steps being taken to begin a search and assessment of potential parliamentary candidates ahead of the 2028 elections. That is a step in the right direction.

It shows foresight. It shows that the party has learnt from past mistakes, where we went into general elections with weak candidates in winnable seats.

But as we take this great step, we must get the process right, devoid of selectivity, favouritism and so-called establishment candidates.

In fact, a parliamentary candidate search must not become a tool for witch-hunting or for imposing favourites. It must be done with fairness, transparency, and in a manner that reflects the supreme interest of the party, not the interest of individuals.

What do I mean?
Fairness: The rules must be the same for everyone. If we say no sitting executive should use party resources to campaign, it must apply to all. If we say we need popular candidates, let us allow the delegates to decide, not a small group in Accra.

Transparency: The criteria for the search must be published. Who qualifies? What are we looking for? How will the assessment be done? When our people see transparency, they will trust the outcome, even if their preferred candidate does not make it.

Party Interest: In the North here, we lost seats not because the NDC was strong, but because we presented candidates who had no connection with the base. We imposed candidates. We ignored early warnings. The interest of the party must override personal friendships and financial influence.

I am particularly concerned about constituencies like Yendi, Wulensi, Zabzugu, Saboba and others where the NPP has huge potential but has struggled due to poor candidate selection. This search is our opportunity to correct that.

Let us search for candidates who are grassroots-oriented, humble, financially committed to the party, and who can unite, not divide.

If we get it right, 2028 will not just be about winning the presidency; we will reclaim our parliamentary majority.