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Former Majority Leader Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu has attributed the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) loss in the 2024 general elections to former President Nana Akufo-Addo’s leadership.
He explained that public perceptions of corruption and arrogance during Akufo-Addo’s tenure, along with concerns that the party had been taken over by certain individuals, led to voter apathy among loyal supporters in the December 7 polls.
Speaking in an interview with Nhyira FM, Mr. Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu referenced the NPP’s election review committee report, particularly its findings in the Ashanti Region. He noted that many party members felt that electing Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia as president would essentially extend Akufo-Addo’s rule.
During the discussion, he recalled an important warning given to Akufo-Addo by the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, which was ultimately ignored:
“In 2017, when President Akufo-Addo assumed office, he visited Otumfuo, who told him that Ghanaians voted out John Mahama due to hunger and anger. He warned that if such a situation repeated itself, the NPP would lose the election.”
The former Majority Leader further noted that the party’s heavy defeat had been foreseeable, as there was a noticeable lack of enthusiasm during the campaign period.
“During our campaign tour, we would typically see large crowds filled with excitement, but this time, that enthusiasm was absent. That was when we realised we were in a tough battle, and I saw the warning signs.”
Despite these warning signs, he admitted that the party remained hopeful of a turnaround.
“But we still believed things could change. In fact, if the elections had been held in August instead of December, we would have secured at least 30% of the vote.”
Looking ahead, Mr. Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu outlined plans for party restructuring and rebuilding trust among voters.
“In 2008, when we lost, no one wanted to admit they had voted for the NDC. But this time, the defeat was massive. When we visit certain areas, people openly tell us why they refused to vote and assure us that if things improve, they will return. That is a good sign.”
He stressed that the party is actively working to resolve internal challenges and prepare for the 2028 elections, clarifying that the defeat was not driven by ethnic considerations.
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