Photo: Asamoah Boateng
Former Minister for Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Stephen Asamoah Boateng, popularly known as Asabee, has launched a scathing critique of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) National Council’s decision to adopt a “Top Down Approach” in selecting the party’s next presidential candidate.
Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosiisen programme, Mr Asamoah Boateng—popularly known as Asabee—said the Council’s decision to hold early presidential primaries as part of a so-called “top-down approach” was ill-conceived and could further destabilise the party.
“I disagree with the National Council’s decisions. Even the idea of early presidential primaries—I have spoken to all the leaders and urged them to slow down,” he said.
Concerns Over Internal Cohesion
Mr Asamoah Boateng questioned the logic behind the Council’s belief that selecting a presidential candidate first would resolve internal tensions. On the contrary, he warned it may intensify existing rivalries and result in the marginalisation of competent grassroots candidates.
“They are lying. That will even worsen the situation. If we elect the presidential candidate first, it won’t stop what’s happening,” he argued.
He also cited the 1992 electoral cycle as a cautionary example, noting that early selection of the presidential candidate allowed the flagbearer to exert undue influence over parliamentary primaries.
“The presidential candidate ends up dictating who he wants in Parliament. That weakens internal democracy and creates resentment.”
Call for Inclusive Participation
Mr Asamoah Boateng expressed concern that only a limited group of party elites are involved in internal decision-making, leaving out the broader base that works tirelessly for the party during national elections.
“The party’s strength lies in its followers—market women, poster boys, volunteers. When it’s time to vote internally, they’re sidelined. But when it’s time for general elections, they’re called upon again.”
He described the current arrangement as one that benefits a small clique, stating:
“It ends up with just five people going for fridges and TVs. That’s not democratic.”
Proposal for Electoral Reform Within the Party
To address these concerns, Mr Asamoah Boateng advocated for the adoption of a “one man, one vote” system for internal elections, leveraging Ghana’s National Identification infrastructure.
“With the Ghana Card and available technology, we can register and validate members across polling stations in a matter of months,” he suggested.
“This would restore trust and create a more participatory structure.”
He added that such a system could be operational by the end of the year if adequate political will is demonstrated.
Bottom-Up Over Top-Down
Asamoah Boateng emphasised the need for the NPP to strengthen its foundational structures before elevating leadership at the top.
“If we are able to build from the base, then we can move upward. But if we start from the top without a firm base, it distorts the entire structure.”
The former minister’s remarks come at a time when internal power struggles and leadership succession debates are intensifying within the NPP ahead of its next national congress.
The party leadership has yet to respond to his comments publicly.
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