Former Finance Minister Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam has urged the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to reform its approach to rewarding members, emphasizing the need to acknowledge grassroots supporters who contribute to electoral victories.
His remarks follow the party’s 2024 defeat, which he attributes in part to a failure to retain the trust of its base after assuming power.
In a social media post, Dr. Adam criticized the NPP’s historical tendency to prioritize proximity to power over merit when appointing government officials. He proposed mandatory criteria for political appointments, limiting eligibility to members “in good standing” who actively participate in party activities and consistently pay dues at constituency, regional, and national levels. “Those who work hard for the party must be rewarded,” he stated, arguing that such measures would energize the party’s base and strengthen internal cohesion.
The former minister also called for unity ahead of the 2028 elections, declaring, “All hands must be on deck and ready for the electoral battle ahead.” His comments reflect broader concerns within the NPP about rebuilding voter confidence after its 2024 loss, with analysts citing perceived elitism and post-election neglect of loyalists as key factors in its decline.
Dr. Adam’s push for institutionalizing loyalty-based appointments underscores a perennial tension in Ghanaian politics: balancing patronage systems with technocratic governance. While rewarding party stalwarts can galvanize grassroots support, critics warn that sidelining expertise risks undermining public service efficiency. Similar debates have surfaced in other major parties, including the National Democratic Congress, which has faced internal strife over resource allocation and candidate selection.
The NPP’s response to these proposals may shape its strategy for reclaiming power. As Ghana’s political landscape grows increasingly competitive, the party’s ability to harmonize loyalty, competence, and inclusivity could determine its viability in the 2028 race. For now, Dr. Adam’s challenge highlights a critical crossroads one where electoral success may hinge on redefining what it means to serve both party and country.
