Afigya Kwabre MP Backs COKA's Bid to Lead NPP Ashanti Region

The Member of Parliament for Afigya Kwabre North has publicly endorsed COKA's candidacy for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Ashanti Regional Chairman position, signalling growing momentum behind the bid as the party charts its recovery course following the 2024 general elections.

In his endorsement, the MP emphasised COKA's suitability for the role, describing him as the party's best hope for stabilising internal tensions and restoring cohesion within what has traditionally been the NPP's stronghold. The intervention reflects broader concerns within the party about faction-building and divisions that emerged during and after the recent electoral cycle.

Rebuilding in Ghana's Political Heartland

Ashanti Region remains critical to the NPP's electoral fortunes, having historically delivered substantial support for the party. However, the 2024 election results have prompted serious reflection within party structures about internal management, organisational effectiveness, and the role of regional leadership in maintaining party discipline.

The MP's statement that COKA is "the man to calm things down" suggests that restoring harmony and focusing on forward momentum are seen as priority challenges for the incoming regional leadership. Party sources indicate that unresolved disagreements from the campaign period and differing views on strategic direction have created friction that requires diplomatic and inclusive leadership.

What This Means for NPP's Ashanti Strategy

The endorsement from an Afigya Kwabre representative carries symbolic weight, as grassroots MPs are influential voices within their communities and often reflect constituency-level sentiment. Their backing of a regional aspirant can signal broader support among rank-and-file members and influence other stakeholders' positions.

The timing of such endorsements is also significant. Ashanti Region, comprising multiple constituencies across Kumasi, Obuasi, Mampong and other towns, will be instrumental in determining the NPP's viability in the 2028 elections. How effectively the party resolves current tensions and restructures its regional operations under new leadership could set the tone for that cycle.

The Background: NPP's Post-Election Transition

The 2024 general elections marked a significant shift in Ghana's political landscape, with implications for how the NPP approaches its role in opposition and party renewal. Ashanti Region's performance, voter turnout patterns, and internal party dynamics in the region are being closely examined as part of a wider assessment of what went wrong and how to rebuild.

Regional chairmanship elections within political parties are typically closely watched because these positions shape campaign messaging, candidate selection, resource allocation, and the party's public face in their respective areas. For the NPP in Ashanti, the appointment represents an opportunity to reset relationships, address grievances, and prepare for electoral recovery.

COKA's candidacy and growing endorsements suggest the party is looking for someone viewed as a consensus builder rather than a divisive figure—someone capable of bridging factions and refocusing energy on organisational strengthening and electoral preparation.