Private legal practitioner Austin Brako-Powers has called on the New Patriotic Party (NPP) not to allow criticisms over the election of Kojo Bamba as its First National Vice Chairman to distract the party. Bamba, a former leader of the pro-NPP Delta Force group, was elected at the party's National Delegates Conference held at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi on October 3. He secured 3,116 votes to defeat Henry Nana Boakye, who polled 3,061 votes, and Nana Akomea, who obtained 2,987 votes.
The opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) has criticised the NPP over Bamba's election, claiming that the party has elected a former convict. However, Brako-Powers argues that Bamba's past should not automatically prevent him from serving the party, particularly after delegates had freely chosen him. He questioned whether Bamba was actually convicted, stating that he is not an ex-convict.
Brako-Powers also acknowledged Bamba's association with the Delta Force vigilante group but said this should not be a hindrance to his role in the party. He argued that even if Bamba had a criminal record, there is no law preventing an ex-convict from contesting an internal position in a political party. This stance is in line with the party's democratic principles.
According to Brako-Powers, Bamba's election should be seen as a decision by the NPP's grassroots to have a representative who understands their concerns and can mobilise them effectively. The NPP's poor performance in the 2024 general election was partly linked to its loss of connection with its grassroots supporters. Brako-Powers believes that Bamba's election could be a step towards rebuilding this connection.
Brako-Powers made these comments on Accra-based TV3's New Day programme on Tuesday, October 6. He encouraged the NPP not to be distracted by the controversy surrounding Bamba's election, which he believes is unfounded. Instead, the party should focus on its political objectives and use Bamba's election as an opportunity to strengthen its grassroots base.
The election of Bamba as First National Vice Chairman could form part of the NPP's efforts to rebuild its grassroots base ahead of the 2028 general election. Brako-Powers stressed that if the delegates have found favour in Bamba and believe he represents their voice, this is a decision that must be respected. The party's focus should be on leveraging Bamba's strengths to mobilise supporters.
Ultimately, Brako-Powers' advice to the NPP is to respect the decision of its delegates and not let unfounded criticisms distract it from its goals. By focusing on its objectives and leveraging the strengths of its elected officials, the party can work towards achieving success in future elections. The NPP's ability to navigate this controversy will be crucial in determining its future trajectory.
Key points
- The NPP should not be distracted by criticisms over Kojo Bamba's election as First National Vice Chairman.
- Kojo Bamba's past association with the Delta Force vigilante group and alleged conviction should not hinder his role in the party.
- Bamba's election could form part of the NPP's efforts to rebuild its grassroots base ahead of the 2028 general election.
