The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has approved 14 constitutional amendments at its National Delegates Conference in Kumasi, Ghana. The changes, approved on October 3, 2026, affect the party's leadership structure, election of Vice Chairpersons, and composition of executive positions. These amendments aim to adjust the party's organisational structure ahead of the 2028 general election. The conference, held at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium, saw 7,163 delegates from across the 16 regions participate in the voting process.
One of the significant changes is that the party's flagbearer will now serve as the leader of the NPP. This reverses a provision introduced at the party's January 31, 2026 conference, which designated the National Chairman as the party's leader. The change comes as the NPP prepares for the 2028 general election, with Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia serving as the party's flagbearer. This amendment is expected to have implications for the party's organisational structure and leadership.
The amendments also change how the party's Vice Chairpersons are elected. Previously, candidates contested for the position of National First Vice Chairman, with the first three candidates becoming the First, Second, and Third Vice Chairpersons. Under the new arrangement, candidates will declare and contest specific Vice Chairperson positions rather than competing for one position and being ranked according to votes received. This change aims to provide more clarity and representation within the party.
In addition to the changes in leadership and Vice Chairperson elections, the amendments provide for the creation of Deputy Communications Officer positions within the party's organisational structure. The party's IT Officer has also been elevated to an executive position, reflecting the party's efforts to adapt to changing organisational needs. These changes are part of the NPP's broader restructuring efforts.
The amendments also allow for the appointment of three additional Vice Chairpersons, who will not be elected through the national elections. Furthermore, the representation of the National Council of Elders on the National Disciplinary Committee has been increased from one member to two. This aims to bring additional experience and institutional perspective to the party's disciplinary processes.
Other changes include granting voting rights to chairpersons of Regional Councils of Elders and Regional Patrons at the National Delegates Conference. The National Council will also be required to provide an administrative manual outlining the duties and responsibilities of elected and non-elected party officers at all levels. This manual aims to provide greater clarity on roles, reduce duplication, and improve accountability within the party.
According to Frank Davies, Chairman of the NPP Constitution Amendment Committee, the amendments aim to address omissions and areas that were not adequately covered during the party's previous constitutional review in 2025. The changes are intended to cure grey areas that were overlooked and have implications for the party's organisational structure ahead of the 2028 general election.
Key points
- The NPP has approved 14 constitutional amendments, making the flagbearer the party leader.
- The party has changed how Vice Chairpersons are elected, with candidates now contesting specific positions.
- The amendments also provide for the creation of new executive positions, including Deputy Communications Officers.
