NPP making a big mistake with 2026 primaries – Paul Afoko

Former National Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Paul Awentami Afoko, has described the decision to hold the party’s presidential primaries in January 2026 as a big mistake.

According to Paul Afoko, the NPP risks undermining its internal renewal process with the January 2026 primaries. He explained that the NPP has traditionally followed a structured system of renewal, starting from polling station elections and moving up to constituencies, regions, and national executives before the choice of a flagbearer.

Speaking in an interview, Paul Afoko emphasised that rushing into the January 2026 primaries breaks the party’s established rhythm. He insisted that the NPP should complete its grassroots renewal before electing a presidential candidate if it hopes to maintain unity and discipline.

“I think the party is making a big mistake going for presidential primaries in January [2026]. Normally, this party goes through a renewal cycle every four years… that renewal starts from the polling stations all the way up. And after the national executive is in place, then you have a presidential primary,” Paul Afoko said.

He stressed that his concerns were not about supporting any individual aspirant. “I don’t have a favourite when it comes to who I think should become the flagbearer of the NPP. I wish them well, but I don’t have a favourite.”

Afoko further highlighted the challenges the NPP has faced since his removal from office, noting that internal divisions and the rise of vigilante groups have slowed the party’s ability to reach its full potential.

“After the court had thrown me out, we started developing Invisible Forces, Delta Forces, Bolgatanga Bulldogs, and we rather became militants,” he explained, stressing the need for disciplined structures and a focus on unity.

Reflecting on his controversial tenure, Afoko said that following his election as NPP National Chairman in April 2014, his suspension in 2015 over allegations of unilateral leadership set the stage for disputes that lingered for years.

While he welcomed the party’s 2025 amnesty for estranged members, he criticised the restriction barring them from contesting internal elections for two years. Afoko called on the NPP to honour its tradition of orderly renewal and ensure that rebuilding and rebranding lead to sustainable unity and progress.