The Chairman of the Council of Elders of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Hackman Owusu Agyemang, has firmly rejected the notion of a succession plan within the party, asserting that the NPP is committed to upholding democratic principles. He emphasized that every qualified party member is afforded the opportunity to contest for leadership positions.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with Accra-based OKAY FM, Hackman Owusu Agyemang clarified the party’s stance on succession planning. While acknowledging that a natural order may have been observed in the past, considering the groups that formed the political party, he affirmed that there is no predetermined plan that automatically grants the flagbearer position to an individual based solely on their time or position within the party.
“As a party, we firmly believe in democracy. We stand for the principles of democracy, and that is what we as a political party uphold,” stated Owusu Agyemang. “While there may have been certain considerations based on the groups that formed the party in the past, there is no succession plan that guarantees the flagbearer position to someone simply because it is their turn.”
He further emphasized that the NPP has consistently adopted an inclusive approach, opening up opportunities for all qualified members to present themselves as candidates. The party conducts fair and transparent voting processes to select the best candidate who can effectively represent the interests of the NPP.
“What we have done as a political party over the years has been to open up for all qualified persons to present themselves so that they are voted on, and the best candidate is selected to represent the political party,” explained Owusu Agyemang.
Hackman Owusu Agyemang’s resolute rejection of the existence of a succession plan highlights the NPP’s steadfast commitment to democratic values and the belief that leadership positions should be earned through a competitive and merit-based electoral process. The party’s emphasis remains on selecting the most capable and qualified individual to champion their collective vision and aspirations.
The Chairman’s statements serve to clarify the party’s position and dispel any misconceptions regarding succession planning within the NPP.
