Savanna News
NPP Chairmanship Race Heats Up: Awentami Paul Afoko Declares Intention to Contest
The political landscape within the New Patriotic Party (NPP) took a decisive turn today as Awentami Paul Afoko formally announced his intention to contest the Party’s upcoming National Chairmanship Position. In a press release issued from his office, Afoko stated his decision comes after “extensive reflection and encouragement” from key party members, supporters, and stakeholders.
Accra, October 28, 2025 – The political landscape within the New Patriotic Party (NPP) took a decisive turn today as Awentami Paul Afoko formally announced his intention to contest the Party’s upcoming National Chairmanship Position. In a press release issued from his office, Afoko stated his decision comes after “extensive reflection and encouragement” from key party members, supporters, and stakeholders.
The declaration signals a major development in the Party’s internal elections, positioning Afoko as a contender ready to take the helm at what he describes as a “critical juncture” in the NPP’s history.
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The Decision
“This decision has not been taken lightly. It comes after careful consideration and in response to the consistent calls for renewed leadership rooted in the founding values and democratic ideals of our Party,” the statement read. Afoko emphasized his long-standing commitment to the NPP, affirming that the time has come to contribute once again to the Party’s rebuilding and strengthening.
A Return to the Frontline: Awentami Paul Afoko’s Previous Tenure
Afoko’s bid marks his return to the Party’s leadership contest after a tumultuous period. He was initially elected National Chairman of the NPP in April 2014. Still, he was controversially suspended from the position by the Party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) in October 2015. The suspension followed a petition citing breaches of the Party’s constitution and alleged misconduct.
The decision led to protracted legal battles, with Afoko challenging his suspension in court, arguing that the NEC lacked the constitutional mandate to suspend him. Ultimately, his attempts to be reinstated were unsuccessful, and the suspension was upheld, culminating in his departure from the post ahead of the NPP’s victory in the 2016 general elections. His current campaign, framed around “rebuilding and strengthening the party,” is therefore viewed by many analysts as an attempt at political rehabilitation and a direct response to his controversial past removal.
A Grande Return
Afoko’s vision centers on prioritizing “the unity and progress of the NPP above all else.” His campaign, as outlined in the release, promises a party that is “re-energised, inclusive, and better positioned to deliver on its promise to the Ghanaian people.”
Looking ahead, Afoko pledged to engage broadly with the Party faithful and the media in the coming weeks. He intends to share his specific vision, ideas, and plans, vowing to lead the NPP with “integrity, transparency, and a renewed sense of purpose.” The release concluded with a call for collective effort: “Let us look ahead together. God bless the NPP. God bless our dear country.”
His formal entry into the race sets the stage for a competitive contest for the leadership of the NPP’s National Executive Committee, with the party structure now firmly focused on the upcoming internal elections for national officers.
