A fact-finding report led by former Majority Leader Kyei Mensah-Bonsu has revealed the key factors that contributed to the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) heavy defeat in the 2024 presidential and parliamentary elections.

The report attributes the party’s poor performance—particularly in the Ashanti Region—to the leadership style of former President Nana Akufo-Addo, which was perceived as rigid, single-minded, and dominated by family members.

Additionally, the mode of selecting the party’s presidential, parliamentary, national, and regional executives was cited as a major issue.

The team gathered insights from respondents across all 47 constituencies in the Ashanti Region, including 'trotro' and taxi drivers, market women, traders, business owners, artisans, youth groups, teachers, doctors, and other professionals.

Key Findings on Akufo-Addo’s Leadership

The report revealed that 87% of respondents believed former President Akufo-Addo was indifferent to public sentiments and concerns.

While many praised his first-term leadership as responsive and effective, they noted that his second term was marked by rigidity, vindictiveness, and a refusal to reshuffle ministers—especially his cousin, former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta.

This, they said, weakened confidence in his leadership and hurt the party’s electoral fortunes.

Bawumia’s Struggles and the Party’s Delegate System

Another major factor identified was the perception of former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia as merely an extension of Akufo-Addo.

A striking 78% of respondents felt that Dr Bawumia’s association with the former president made it difficult for him to present himself as an independent leader. This perception, the report noted, alienated many voters on the campaign trail.

The report also criticised the party’s delegate system for selecting candidates, describing it as a "cancerous" process that needs urgent reform.

The research emphasised that the current electoral college must be reviewed and expanded to make it more inclusive, ensuring that grassroots members have a greater stake in the party's future.

Recommendations

The report recommends internal reforms to address structural defects within the party, eliminating internal apathy and the monetization issues associated with delegate voting.

It also emphasises the need for merit-based appointments to reassure foot soldiers that future rewards and positions will be based on commitment, hard work, and merit.

Additionally, it noted that the party must prioritise conflict resolution by swiftly addressing internal disputes to foster unity and avoid unnecessary divisions.

Bridging gaps with natural allies is another key recommendation, as reconnecting with the party’s traditional support base and mending strained relationships will be crucial for future success.

The fact-finding team also included Emelda Antwi, William Oppong Bio, Bernard Abdallah, Rose Hamilton, and Oheneba Owusu Danso.