The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has unveiled a sweeping revision of its internal election rules, citing what it described as “practical challenges” encountered during ongoing registration and electoral activities.
The decision was reached at an emergency session of the National Executive Committee (NEC) on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at the party’s headquarters. Acting on behalf of the National Council, the NEC moved in accordance with the party’s constitution.
In a statement signed by General Secretary Justin Kodua Frimpong, the party explained that the updated framework is designed “to strengthen internal democracy, enhance transparency and ensure a smoother and more credible electoral process across all levels of the party.”
Polling Station Adjustments
Under the new rules, polling station elections may be suspended in cases of disputes—particularly where members, including those registered online, are denied the chance to vote or participate. Such matters will be escalated through constituency structures to the regional steering committee for resolution.
The party has also capped polling station executive positions at 25 per station and clarified rules for cluster polling stations. Members may contest within clusters provided they reside in the relevant electoral area.
Eligibility requirements have been tightened, with candidates required to reside and vote in the same polling station area they wish to contest—except in special stations such as those located in security zones, tertiary institutions, ministries, markets, and hospitals.
Electoral Area and Chapter-Level Changes
At the electoral area level, committees may conduct up to 10 executive elections. Polling station executives seeking to contest must resign before filing nominations.
For chapter elections, the NEC has formalised committee structures and permitted voting either in person or via the party’s official e-voting platform. Only members active for at least two years may contest or vote.
Positions at chapter level mirror those at constituency level, including chairperson, secretary, organiser, and communications officer. Newly elected executives will appoint officers to key administrative roles such as research, electoral affairs, and finance.
Branch Elections and Manual Development
Branch elections will likewise be conducted physically or through the e-voting platform, with eligibility restricted to members active for at least two years. Branch executive roles have been aligned with the regional structure, ensuring consistency across the hierarchy.
Additionally, the NEC has set up an ad-hoc committee to draft a comprehensive manual defining the responsibilities of party officers at all levels. Former chairman Peter Mac Manu chairs the committee, supported by legal and governance experts from within the party.
Call for Compliance
The NPP has urged all stakeholders to study the revised guidelines and comply fully. Leadership stressed that the reforms aim to promote unity, credibility, and inclusiveness while reinforcing the party’s democratic traditions.
The statement concluded with a call for collaboration among members, with the leadership reaffirming its commitment to uphold the values and heritage of the party.
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