The General Secretary of the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP), Justin Kodua Frimpong, has admitted that the party is still grappling with the disappointment of its defeat in the December 7, 2024, general elections.

In a New Year message to party supporters, Mr Kodua said the experience of the past year had been difficult, noting that the loss remains painful for many within the party. However, he said that the setback does not define the NPP’s future.

"The defeat in the December 7, 2024 elections was painful, and the scars of that loss remain fresh. But let us be clear: though we were tested, we were not broken."

According to him, the party’s strength lies in its long-standing values, resilience, and commitment to national development, rather than the outcome of a single election.

“The past year has tested us deeply,” he said, adding that the NPP has faced challenging moments before and has always found a way to bounce back through unity and determination.

Mr Kodua disclosed that the party has already begun addressing weaknesses exposed by the defeat. He said several internal reforms are underway to reposition the NPP for future contests.

These include proposed constitutional amendments, the establishment of a training and research centre known as the Patriotic Institute, and the reactivation of the party’s membership dues payment system.

He explained that the reforms are aimed at strengthening party structures and improving organisation at all levels.

Looking ahead, the General Secretary said the party has lined up major activities for the year, including the presidential primary, the election of party officers nationwide, and a reconciliation and unity campaign.

He assured members that all internal elections will be conducted in a free, fair, and transparent manner.

Mr Kodua also warned against internal divisions as the party prepares for a competitive presidential race, urging members to avoid factionalism and focus on rebuilding trust and cohesion.

He praised the Minority in Parliament, led by Alexander Afenyo-Markin, for what he described as a firm and principled opposition role.

He also commended party executives and grassroots supporters for remaining loyal despite the loss of political power.

Mr Kodua called on party faithful not to lose confidence, saying the NPP would rebuild and return stronger through reflection, resilience, and collective effort.

Below is the full statement

NEW YEAR MESSAGE OF HOPE AND RENEWAL

JUSTIN KODUA FRIMPONG, ESQ.
[GENERAL SECRETARY - NPP]

Fellow patriots, cherished members of the New Patriotic Party, and beloved Ghanaians, I say: Kukrudu!

As we welcome the New Year, I extend to you and your families my deepest wishes for peace, strength, and renewed hope. The year behind us was heavy with trials. The defeat in the December 7, 2024 elections was painful, and the scars of that loss remain fresh. But let us be clear: though we were tested, we were not broken.

The NPP is not defined by a single election. We are defined by our enduring values, our unyielding spirit, and our unwavering commitment to Ghana. Our party has weathered storms before, and each time we have risen stronger and more united. That is who we are—and this moment is no different.

Following the 2024 electoral defeat, the Party has taken bold and decisive steps to address our structural challenges and enhance our future electoral fortunes. These actions reflect our resolve to rebuild stronger and better.

Among these measures is the decision to hold the Presidential Primary before all other internal elections—an unprecedented but necessary move. The Party has amended its constitution to address structural gaps, established a Training and Research Centre known as The Patriotic Institute, and reactivated our membership drive and dues payment platform.

While 2026 may present its own challenges, I assure our rank and file that with their continued support, the leadership of the Party will confront every obstacle with determination and overcome them.

In this calendar year, the Party will undertake several key activities, including the Presidential Primary, the election of party officers at all levels, a reconciliation and unity drive, and the formation of sector committees, among others.

The leadership of the Party reaffirms its unwavering commitment to ensuring free, fair, and transparent elections, both in the upcoming Flagbearer race and across all internal elections.

Though the Presidential contest may appear fiercely competitive, with divisions emerging, we must always remember that our strength lies not in factions, but in unity. True leadership is born of humility, sacrifice, and the courage to unite. It is about binding wounds, lifting spirits, and carrying the hopes of millions who believe in the NPP.

I take this opportunity to salute our Mighty Minority in Parliament, led by Osahen Alexander Afenyo-Markin. In the face of adversity, you have stood tall, defending the values of our Party and the interests of Ghanaians. Your courage is our pride, and I assure you that the entire Party stands firmly behind you. I am also grateful to the Party’s Legal Directorate, led by Gary Nimako Marfo, for rising to the occasion in defense of the Party during these trying times.

To our Polling Station Executives, Electoral Area Coordinators, Constituency Executives, Regional Officers, External Branch Executives, TESCON Executives, Party Communicators, Elders and Patrons, Members of Parliament, and National Executives—you are the lifeblood of this Party. In these difficult moments, your loyalty has been our anchor and our source of strength. You have borne the weight of defeat with dignity, and you continue to keep the flame of the NPP alive in every community, every household, and every heart.

Let us draw inspiration from the season we have just celebrated. Christmas teaches us that light is born in the darkest hour. In the same way, this New Year must remind us that from reflection comes strength, and from challenge comes victory.

INDEED, THE ELEPHANT IS OUR WINNING SYMBOL.

To the grassroots, I say: lift your heads high. You are the heartbeat of the NPP. Your sacrifices, resilience, and faith will carry us forward. Do not lose hope. Do not give in to despair. Better days are ahead, and together we will rebuild, together we will rise again.

To all Ghanaians, I extend a message of renewal: let us walk together in peace, progress, and unity. The New Patriotic Party remains committed to serving our nation with integrity, vision, and dedication.

God bless you.
God bless the New Patriotic Party.
And God bless our beloved Ghana.