By Francisca Amoakoa
Tensions flared within the Ashanti Regional Executives of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) on August 11, as dissatisfied members opted out of the party’s regional campaign team launch at Rattray Park in Kumasi.
Despite being designated key roles in the party’s regional campaign operations, the disgruntled executives, including Francis Adomako (Regional Organiser), Raphael Patrick Sarfo (Regional Youth Organiser), Patrick Acheampong (First Vice Chairman), and the Second Vice Chairwoman, chose to boycott the event.
The inaugural event saw the presence of notable party figures such as Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh (Vice Presidential Candidate), Akosua Frema Opare (Chief of Staff), Osei Kyei Mensah Bonsu (Chairman of the NPP Manifesto Committee), and Dr. Osei Afriyie Akoto (former Agric Minister).
The dissatisfied executives had voiced grievances about feeling marginalised by the Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, alleging a lack of prior consultation in regional decisions.
Despite attempts at intervention by National Executives, the underlying issues persist. Chairman Wontumi, in his address at the ceremony, urged the appointed committees to execute their duties diligently to meet the party’s standards.
Concerns were raised by some party members regarding the ramifications of internal discord within the party.
Delegates from Manhyia South, North, Bantama, Suame, and other constituencies expressed apprehension, stating, “In 2008, the economic climate was favorable, and we fell short of our goals. Now, facing economic challenges and intense pressure from the NDC, we head towards the election divided. It may be time to acknowledge defeat.”
Others urged the General Secretary to revisit the situation to foster unity within the party.