John Boadu reclaims NPP chairmanship in Kumasi congress shake-up

John Boadu has reclaimed the chairmanship of Ghana's opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) following a competitive election at the party's National Delegates Conference in Kumasi on Saturday, October 3, 2026. The 56-year-old former General Secretary's victory at Baba Yara Sports Stadium marks a significant moment in the party's leadership restructuring as it prepares for the 2028 general elections.

Boadu's win came after a strategic last-minute alliance with fellow candidate Sammy Crabbe, the former Greater Accra Regional Chairman, who withdrew and threw his support behind him on the day of voting. The chairmanship race featured four candidates, including former National Chairman Paul Afoko and former Energy Minister Boakye Agyarko, drawing participation from more than 7,000 delegates across the country.

Rebuilding the NPP for 2028

Boadu's return to a senior party position reflects the NPP's determination to strengthen its organisational structures following its period in opposition. His previous tenure as General Secretary from 2018 to 2022 positioned him as a familiar figure within party machinery, and his election signals confidence in his ability to lead the party's renewal efforts.

Beyond the chairmanship contest, Saturday's conference saw the election of a full slate of nine national officers. Justin Frimpong Kodua retained his position as General Secretary, Daniel Titus Glover was elected National Organiser, and Alfred Kwajo Thompson took the National Treasurer role. Three National Vice Chairpersons were elected from a field of 13 candidates: Kojo Fosu as First Vice Chairman, Henry Nana Boakye as Second Vice Chairman, and Nana Akomea as Third Vice Chairman.

Dennis Edward Miracles Aboagye was elected unopposed as National Communications Director, while the special wing positions saw Abanga Yakubu Fuseni emerge as National Youth Organiser, Hawa Koomson as National Women's Organiser, and Mohammed Ali Suraj as National Nasara Organiser.

Constitutional changes and party direction

The congress also marked an important moment for NPP constitutional development. Delegates considered and approved proposed amendments to the party's constitution, including modifications to provisions governing the position of party leader whilst in opposition. These constitutional reforms are expected to clarify internal governance structures and provide clearer direction for the party's leadership architecture during its time outside government.

The breadth of participation—with over 7,000 delegates voting—underscores the significance placed on these elections by the party grassroots. The competitive nature of several races, particularly the three vice chairmanship positions contested by 13 candidates, indicates active engagement within the party's membership base.

As the NPP moves forward under Boadu's leadership, attention will turn to how effectively these newly elected officers can execute the party's reorganisation agenda and strengthen its position ahead of the next general election cycle.