The General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Justin Frimpong Kodua, has justified the party’s decision to hold an early presidential primary, saying it will ease internal tensions and help prepare for the 2028 general elections.

Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen show, Mr Kodua explained that social media now plays a critical role in shaping perceptions about party matters.

“Unlike some years back, social media has become very active and influential in our internal party matters. When something happens, emotions rise quickly, and it creates confusion and tension,” he said.

He observed that many supporters are more concerned about who becomes the next flagbearer than the broader national elections.

“Right now, if you observe commentary and campaign trends, people are not talking much about national elections but more about who becomes the party’s next presidential candidate. That tells you something,” he noted.

According to him, conducting the presidential primary early will bring unity to the party and help calm nerves.

“Once a leader is chosen, the confusion will reduce. We’ll have someone to rally behind, and someone who can speak boldly on behalf of the party,” he said.

Mr Kodua added that the NPP, now in opposition, needs a strong flagbearer to keep the government on its toes.

“We need a leader who can respond directly to the governing president. We can’t remain silent. Ghanaians must know we are reorganising and ready to win 2028,” he said.

He acknowledged that the party’s 2024 electoral defeat was painful and has prompted members to push for bold reforms.

“Everyone in the party has been hurt by the 2024 loss. That’s why we’re making drastic decisions, including the early presidential primaries, to show we’re serious about bouncing back.”

On the process leading to the new primary date, he said the National Council approved January 31, 2026, after reviewing recommendations from the Constitution Review Committee.

“As for the date and venue, it’s not for the Council to decide. That power lies with the National Council, and they’ve already approved it in line with Article 13(11) of our constitution.”

He revealed that though there were differing opinions on the timing, the decision to hold the primaries early was ultimately accepted.

“There were discussions both for and against the early primary. But in the end, there was no real opposition to the idea of doing it early.”

Meanwhile, a nine-member committee chaired by former Bekwai MP Joseph Osei Owusu has been tasked with planning the July 2025 National Delegates Conference, where other constitutional amendments will be considered.