Paul Afoko throws hat in ring for NPP chairmanship, says past struggles have prepared him

Paul Awentami Afoko has formally entered the race for the New Patriotic Party's National Chairman position, submitting his nomination forms to the party's Elections Committee at NPP headquarters on Tuesday, 25 August 2026. The filing marks a significant moment in the ongoing succession contest within Ghana's main opposition party.

Speaking to supporters immediately after the submission, Afoko adopted a redemption narrative, framing his controversial political past as a learning opportunity rather than a disqualification. "I have learnt from my difficulties, I have learnt from my mistakes, and I have therefore got the experience," he told the gathered crowd. The statement appeared aimed at addressing concerns about his previous tenure and controversial episodes that have marked his political career.

Campaigning for delegate support

Afoko committed to an intensive nationwide engagement with party delegates ahead of the internal elections, emphasising their central role in the selection process. He referred to delegates as the party's "big men," signalling respect for their gatekeeping authority in the election. "I will come to you. I am coming to visit all of you," he promised, outlining plans for grassroots campaigning across the country.

His candidacy announcement was marked by visible enthusiasm from supporters, who filled NPP headquarters with drumming, singing and celebratory chanting. The energetic reception underscored the mobilisation behind his campaign, even as the broader party contest remains competitive with multiple aspirants.

Why it matters for Ghana

The NPP National Chairman race holds considerable weight in Ghanaian politics. As the ruling party's administrative leader and chief strategist between elections, the chairman significantly influences party direction, internal discipline and electoral strategy. With Ghana's political cycle moving towards the next general election, the choice of chairman will shape how the NPP organises itself, manages internal factions and prepares its messaging and candidates.

Afoko's previous roles in the party, including a stint as National Chairman earlier in the 2010s, ended amid controversy. His reentry into this contest represents either a rehabilitation bid or a test of whether the party has moved beyond previous grievances. The outcome of this election will reveal much about the NPP's current factional balance and whether delegates are willing to give comeback figures a second opportunity.

The internal elections themselves remain a critical barometer of party health—how contested they become, how transparent the process is, and whether the winner can unite diverse party interests will all carry implications for NPP performance in general elections. For Ghanaians broadly, a well-functioning opposition that can hold government accountable and present a credible alternative depends partly on the quality of leadership in these internal contests.