Dr. Charles Dwanena, the National Treasurer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has urged the party’s leadership to expand its electoral college system to include all card-bearing members in the election of leaders from polling station to national levels.
Speaking in an interview with OmanFM monitored by Kumasimail.com, Dr. Dwanena argued that the time has come for the NPP, a major political force in Ghana to lead by example and allow all card-bearing members to participate in electing leaders from the grassroots polling station level all the way to the national stage.
“It’s long overdue; by now, a big party like the NPP should have set an example for other political parties to follow.”
Dr. Dwanena described the current system as outdated and exclusionary, noting that many loyal party members who fulfill their obligations remain sidelined during leadership elections.
According to Dr. Dwanena, allowing card-bearing members who fulfill their obligations, such as paying dues, to participate in internal elections would enhance inclusivity and strengthen the party’s democratic credentials.
He said “We should extend it, and if possible, any card-bearing member who fulfills their obligations, such as paying dues, should be allowed to vote
“If we’re going to elect party leadership from polling station up to national level, we should ensure every party member participates in the process,” he stated.
While advocating for full participation, he acknowledged the logistical challenges that come with expanding the electoral college but insisted that these hurdles should not be an excuse to maintain the status quo.
“If a full expansion isn’t immediately possible, at the very least, former executives, patrons, and key financiers must be included in the voting process. This is non-negotiable,” Dr. Dwanena emphasized.
Dr. Dwanena highlighted the practical consequences of excluding dedicated members from decision-making.
He warned that sidelining influential party figures can fracture the party’s grassroots support.
“When loyal members are ignored, their followers become disillusioned and may drift away. But when these leaders are visibly involved in party activities, it energizes their supporters and helps us grow our base,” he explained.
Source : www.kumasimail.com /Kwadwo Owusu
