Former Acting National Chairman of Ghana's New Patriotic Party (NPP), Joseph Danquah Smith Buttey, has publicly expressed his disappointment and frustration with Anthony Abayifaa Karbo, a former National Elections Committee member. Buttey accused Karbo of defying his directive during the party's recent national conference. The directive in question concerned the proposed constitutional amendments, which Buttey believed needed more consideration and debate before being approved.
According to Buttey, he had suggested that the proposed constitutional amendments be deferred to the next national conference. He argued that the party needed sufficient time to thoroughly examine the proposals while also conducting the elections. Despite his concerns, the constitutional review proceeded at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium. Delegates eventually approved all 14 proposed amendments, including a significant change that makes the party's elected flagbearer its leader.
The approved amendment reversed a provision introduced earlier in 2026, which had made the National Chairman the party leader. Buttey expressed his dissatisfaction with the amendments, particularly the change to the party's leadership structure. He emphasized that his disagreement with Karbo was not personal but centered on the decision to disregard his authority. Buttey stated that he only wanted what was best for the NPP and believed that postponing the amendments would have given delegates adequate time to consider them.
In an interview on Ezra TV/FM, Buttey questioned Karbo's authority to defy his instructions, asking, "Who is Karbo to defy my orders?" He made it clear that he had no personal problem with Karbo but was concerned about the manner in which his directive was disregarded. The clash between the two NPP members has brought attention to internal party dynamics and decision-making processes.
With his tenure as Acting National Chairman now over, Buttey stated that he is leaving the position with a clear conscience. He emphasized that his actions and decisions were guided by his desire for the best interests of the NPP. Buttey's comments reflect his commitment to the party's well-being, even as he steps down from his role.
The recent national conference and the approval of the constitutional amendments have significant implications for the NPP's future. The changes, including the new leadership structure, will likely influence the party's operations and potentially its performance in future elections. As the party moves forward, it will be essential to address internal disagreements and ensure a unified approach.
Buttey's departure and comments highlight the challenges and complexities of managing internal party dynamics. His assertion that he is leaving with a "clean head" underscores his perspective on the matter. The NPP will need to navigate these internal issues to maintain party cohesion and achieve its goals.
Key points
- Former NPP Acting National Chairman Joseph Danquah Smith Buttey expressed frustration with Anthony Abayifaa Karbo for defying his directive on postponing constitutional amendments.
- The NPP national conference approved significant changes, including making the party's elected flagbearer its leader, reversing a 2026 provision.
- Buttey emphasized that his disagreement with Karbo was not personal but centered on the decision to disregard his authority.
