The recently concluded 2024 elections have presented a sobering reality for the New Patriotic Party (NPP). The results, which saw the National Democratic Congress (NDC) secure a decisive victory with 56.55% of the vote, have left analysts and supporters alike pondering the contributing factors. Among the key issues is the role played by Alan Kyerematen’s breakaway Movement for Change (MFC) and its ramifications on the NPP’s performance and future prospects.
The Alan Kyerematen Factor
Alan Kyerematen, a founding member of the NPP, established the MFC after a fallout with the party. Despite its nascent state, the MFC garnered 31,202 votes nationwide. While this figure is relatively small, its symbolic significance cannot be overlooked. The mere existence of the MFC highlighted a fracturing within the NPP’s traditional support base.
Statements from Kyerematen’s supporters “As much as Hon. Alan could not perform as it’s expected, I strongly believe the greater ultimate of the movement was to see npp in opposition and coming to the eve of the elections I realized most people (MFC) movement for Change voted for Mahama to pick NPP out of tyrant governance. The way forward is what we’re to talk about now. Thank you.” suggest that some members of the MFC may have voted strategically for John Mahama of the NDC to unseat the NPP, perceived as having adopted “tyrant governance.” If this sentiment is widespread, it underscores a critical loss of trust within the NPP’s ranks, which may have cost the party crucial votes in swing regions.
Impact on the NPP’s Performance
While the MFC did not achieve significant numerical success, the diversion of even a fraction of NPP votes to a new party or opposition candidates could have compounded the ruling party’s challenges. The NPP’s reduced vote share 41.61% compared to the NDC’s commanding lead suggests that internal fragmentation played a role in its defeat.
Additionally, the MFC’s existence likely fueled negative perceptions of disunity and governance fatigue within the NPP. Voters may have seen Kyerematen’s departure as indicative of deeper systemic issues within the party, leading them to explore alternative options.
Implications for Future Elections
If unresolved, the factors that led to Kyerematen’s defection and the formation of the MFC could have long-term implications for the NPP. The party risks becoming embroiled in internal disputes rather than focusing on rebuilding its image and addressing the concerns of its supporters.
Moreover, the presence of splinter groups like the MFC may continue to dilute the NPP’s vote share in future elections, making it harder for the party to regain its former strength. To avoid this, the NPP must embark on a deliberate process of reconciliation and introspection. Key steps include:
1. Addressing grievances: Ensuring that internal democracy and inclusiveness are prioritized to prevent future defections.
2. Rebranding and messaging: Restoring confidence among disenchanted supporters by articulating a clear and inspiring vision for the future.
3. Strategic alliances: Engaging with influential stakeholders and splinter groups to build a united front.
Conclusion
While Alan Kyerematen’s MFC may not have been the sole reason for the NPP’s defeat, its existence amplified existing challenges and contributed to a narrative of disunity and discontent within the party. Moving forward, the NPP must take bold steps to heal internal divisions, rebuild trust, and present a united front if it hopes to regain political relevance and contest future elections successfully. Failure to do so risks relegating the party to prolonged opposition, with its foundational principles and legacy at stake.
By:
Baffour Asare
