‘Enough was enough’ – Mustapha Gbande says NPP insiders helped Mahama’s comeback – Life Pulse Daily

Introduction

In a striking revelation that has reignited debate about cross-party dynamics in Ghanaian politics, National Democratic Congress (NDC) Deputy General Secretary Mustapha Gbande has claimed that insiders from the New Patriotic Party (NPP) played a pivotal role in former President John Mahama’s political resurgence. Speaking on Joy News’ PM Express, Gbande argued that dissatisfaction within the NPP, coupled with a sense of national urgency, drove members and sympathizers to support Mahama’s return. This article unpacks Gbande’s statements, examines their political context, and explores why such cross-party support could influence future electoral outcomes in Ghana.

Key Points

Background

The 2024 Ghanaian general election marked a significant political shift, with former President John Mahama returning to power after a period in opposition. The NDC’s victory ended the NPP’s eight-year hold on the presidency and raised questions about the factors that enabled such a transition.

The 2016 Defeat and Its Aftermath

The NDC’s loss in 2016 was a watershed moment. After two terms under John Mahama and his predecessor John Atta Mills, the party faced internal divisions and strategic missteps. Gbande notes that one of the key lessons learned was the cost of failing to fully back Mahama’s agenda during his first term. He argues that the party’s inability to present a united front allowed the NPP to capitalize on public dissatisfaction.

Ghana’s Political Climate in 2024

By 2024, economic challenges—including inflation, debt distress, and public sector wage disputes—had eroded confidence in the NPP-led government. Infrastructure projects, particularly roads, schools, and hospitals, faced delays or were abandoned in some regions. These issues created fertile ground for opposition parties to mobilize support.

Analysis

Gbande’s assertion that NPP insiders supported Mahama’s return is not merely a boast; it reflects broader patterns in Ghanaian politics where intra-elite competition and policy disagreements can lead to cross-party alliances.

The Role of Disillusioned NPP Members

According to Gbande, many within the NPP believed the government had “lost its way” and that the country was on the brink of collapse. This sentiment, he argues, led to what he describes as “enough was enough” among key figures who prioritized national interest over party loyalty. While he declined to specify whether this support included campaign funding or active canvassing, he emphasized it came “in many ways” and was decisive in key constituencies.

Civil Society and Media Influence

Gbande also highlighted the role of civil society organizations and independent media in shaping public opinion. He praised advocacy groups that campaigned on what he termed “nationalistic grounds,” pushing for accountability and transparency. The media, he argued, helped amplify these messages, creating a narrative that change was both necessary and achievable.

NDC Unity and Strategic Leadership

Unlike in 2016, Gbande insists the NDC entered the 2024 race with a cohesive structure. He pointed to strong coordination across all levels of the party, a credible flagbearer with a clear vision, and the historic selection of a female running mate—factors he says contributed to a compelling alternative to the incumbent government.

Why Cross-Party Support Matters

The idea that members of one party would support another’s candidate is not unprecedented in Ghana, but it underscores the fragility of party loyalty when national crises intensify. Political scientists often refer to this phenomenon as “elite defection,” where internal dissent leads to strategic realignments. In this case, Gbande suggests that NPP insiders viewed Mahama not as an opponent but as a stabilizing force.

Practical Advice

For political parties, analysts, and citizens seeking to understand the implications of Gbande’s claims, several lessons emerge:

For Political Parties

• Maintain Internal Cohesion: Regular internal dialogue and inclusive decision-making can prevent disillusionment among members.
• Monitor Public Sentiment: Early detection of dissatisfaction allows parties to adjust policies before defections occur.
• Promote Accountability: Transparent governance reduces the likelihood of cross-party backlash.

For Voters

• Evaluate Performance Over Loyalty: Electoral choices should be based on governance outcomes rather than blind party allegiance.
• Engage Critically with Media: Diversify news sources to avoid echo chambers and misinformation.

For Civil Society

• Sustain Advocacy: Continuous pressure on governance issues can amplify public demand for change.
• Encourage Dialogue: Facilitate forums that bring together diverse political actors to discuss national priorities.

FAQ

Conclusion

Mustapha Gbande’s revelations offer a rare glimpse into the complex dynamics that shape electoral outcomes in Ghana. While his claims require further verification, they highlight the importance of internal party health, responsive governance, and civic engagement. The 2024 election may be remembered not just for its result, but for the unusual alliances it exposed. As Ghana continues to strengthen its democratic institutions, the interplay between party loyalty and national interest will remain a critical area of scrutiny.