The Volta Regional Youth Organizer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Emmanuel Senyo Amekplenu, says winning the party’s internal elections depends largely on a candidate’s engagement with delegates and ability to mobilise support, rather than ballot numbers alone.
Speaking as a guest on Metro TV’s Good Morning Ghana on NPP’s internal election process, Mr. Amekplenu said although ballot positions and endorsements may influence voters, a candidate’s relationship with delegates, campaign strategy and ability to connect with party members are key to securing victory.
“Numbers alone is not a prerequisite to winning election,” he said, adding that when it comes to endorsements, “who endorses matter.”
Mr. Amekplenu cited his own campaign experience, saying he personally visited about 80 percent of delegates in their homes as part of his efforts to win their support.
According to him, candidates must go beyond digital campaigns and engage directly with delegates to communicate their message, understand their concerns and build strong relationships.
He also called for a shift from what he described as “establishment candidates kind of politics,” stressing that political decisions are largely driven by interests.
Mr. Amekplenu further argued that delegates should be allowed to assess candidates based on their capacity, experience, relationship with the party and understanding of issues affecting members, rather than simply following the preferences of influential individuals.
Meanwhile, Presidential Aide at the Office of the President, Dr. Sammy Ayeh, raised concerns about the lack of policy discussions surrounding the NPP’s internal elections.
“I have not heard any policy discussion regarding NPP elections,” he said.
The discussions emphasized the growing focus on how candidates can secure delegate support as the NPP’s internal election process continues, with mobilisation, direct engagement, endorsements and policy direction featuring prominently in conversations about the party’s future.
STORY BY: CHORO MARY ADWOA OWUSUA
