Former Majority Leader Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu has recalled an unheeded warning from the Ashanti overlord, which was a contributory factor to the New Patriotic Party (NPP)’s abysmal showing in the 2024 elections.
He told the press that a significant warning had come from Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II in 2017 when he cautioned President Akufo-Addo that hunger and anger had led to the downfall of the Mahama government in 2016.
He warned that if the same conditions prevailed under Akufo-Addo, history would repeat itself.
Reflecting on the party’s defeat, the former Suame MP noted that unlike previous elections, no massive crowds were lining the streets to welcome Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, signaling a growing disconnection between the party and the electorate.
The Chairman of the NPP manifesto committee admitted that the lack of enthusiasm during Dr Bawumia’s campaign was an early sign of the challenges the NPP faced in the 2024 elections.
Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu revealed that while they remained hopeful, the economic hardships in the country had already taken a toll on voter confidence.
He suggested that if the elections had been held in August instead of December, Dr. Bawumia might have secured only 30% of the votes against John Mahama, as the economic situation had begun to show signs of improvement closer to the elections.
Several factors contributed to the NPP’s defeat, including economic hardships, public perception of corruption, and a leadership style viewed as rigid and disconnected.
Many believed the government was controlled by a small inner circle, leading to frustration among both party members and the general public.
Additionally, there was a growing perception that Dr. Bawumia was merely an extension of President Akufo-Addo, which affected his ability to inspire confidence as an independent leader.
Regional grievances also played a role in the party’s decline.
In the Ashanti Region, traditionally an NPP stronghold, there was widespread dissatisfaction over the perceived neglect of infrastructure development.
This, coupled with internal party tensions and factionalism, further weakened their support base.
Regarding the future of the NPP, Mr. Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu emphasized the need for introspection and reforms.
He stated that many party supporters had expressed their grievances openly, which he considered a positive sign, as it meant they were still willing to engage with the party if meaningful changes were made.
The question of Dr. Bawumia’s political future remains uncertain.
While the Ashanti Region’s post-election analysis did not attribute the loss to his religion or ethnicity, the broader feedback from other regions would ultimately determine his viability as a future flagbearer.
Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu also acknowledged that the choice of running mate, Dr Matthew Opoku-Prempeh (Napo), had been an attempt to bridge internal party divides.
However, despite high expectations, Napo did not deliver the anticipated youth support.
