‘Performance, no longer sympathy’ – Bryan Acheampong says NPP should destroy custom – Life Pulse Daily

Introduction

In the aftermath of Ghana’s 2024 presidential election, Bryan Acheampong, a leading figure of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), delivered a stark message: the party must replace sentiment and tradition with a performance‑driven approach when selecting its next flagbearer. His comments, made during an interview on PM Express, have sparked widespread discussion across political circles and media outlets. This article unpacks the key takeaways, contextualizes the political backdrop, analyses the arguments presented, and offers practical guidance for stakeholders seeking clarity on the evolving dynamics of Ghanaian politics.

Key Points

Background

Political Context of the 2024 Election

The 2024 Ghanaian presidential election was marked by heightened competition among major parties, with the NPP facing the challenge of retaining power after two terms under President Nana Akufo‑Addo. Internal party dynamics saw rising speculation about potential successors, notably Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, who had been positioned as the party’s flagship candidate for years.

Bryan Acheampong’s Role

Bryan Acheampong, former Member of Parliament for Abetifi and former Minister of State for Agriculture, is a prominent voice within the NPP. His public statements often influence party discourse, especially on issues of strategy and candidate selection. The interview on PM Express marked a significant moment as he openly questioned the party’s reliance on tradition and sentimental factors.

Electoral Outcomes

Official results released by the Electoral Commission of Ghana indicated that the NPP secured a reduced parliamentary footprint compared to previous elections. While the party retained the presidency, the margin of victory narrowed, and regional sweeps were limited to pockets in the Ashanti and Greater Accra regions.

Analysis

Why Performance Metrics Matter

Political scientists in Ghana emphasize that voter behavior is increasingly tied to tangible outcomes such as economic growth, infrastructure development, and governance efficiency. When parties rely heavily on legacy narratives, they risk alienating voters who prioritize current results over historical loyalty.

Implications for Candidate Selection

Acheampong’s argument suggests a shift toward a more data‑driven selection process. If the party adopts performance‑based criteria, future flagbearer nominations may be guided by:

• Quantifiable electoral data (e.g., vote percentages in previous contests).
• Policy achievements and implementation records.
• Public approval ratings and stakeholder feedback.

Such an approach could reduce the influence of entrenched factional interests and promote meritocracy within party structures.

Potential Resistance and Opportunities

While some party elders may view performance‑centric evaluation as a threat to tradition, others see it as an opportunity to modernize the NPP’s internal democracy. Embracing transparent metrics could also enhance the party’s credibility among independent voters and youth demographics.

Legal Considerations

Ghana’s political party laws do not mandate specific criteria for candidate selection, allowing parties considerable discretion in internal processes. However, any move that appears to marginalize protected groups without justification could attract scrutiny under anti‑discrimination statutes. The NPP would need to ensure that performance assessments are applied uniformly and transparently to avoid legal challenges.

Practical Advice

For Party Strategists

1. Data Collection: Compile comprehensive performance dashboards for all potential candidates, covering election results, policy delivery, and public sentiment.

2. Transparent Scoring: Develop a clear scoring rubric that quantifies each criterion, enabling all stakeholders to understand the evaluation process.

3. Stakeholder Engagement: Host forums where party delegates, regional leaders, and civil society can discuss the criteria and provide feedback.

For Media and Analysts

1. Fact‑Checking: Verify election statistics and statements before disseminating them to the public.

2. Contextual Reporting: Frame performance discussions within broader socio‑economic trends to avoid oversimplification.

3. Balanced Coverage: Present multiple perspectives, including those of incumbents and opposition parties, to foster informed debate.

For Voters

1. Issue‑Based Voting: Focus on candidates’ policy proposals and past performance rather than party loyalty alone.

2. Engage with Candidates

Attend town‑hall meetings and scrutinize candidates’ records on governance and economic management.