Zain A. B. Sulleyman, a New Patriotic Party (NPP) communicator in the Volta Region, has officially announced his candidacy for the position of Volta Regional Communication Officer. Sulleyman aims to implement a transformative communication strategy in preparation for the 2028 general elections, citing a critical juncture for the party in the region.
Context: The Road to 2028
Sulleyman’s declaration comes at a time when the NPP is strategizing for future electoral success. He addressed party elders, executives, delegates, and grassroots members, framing his decision as a response to the party’s current standing. He emphasized that while grassroots enthusiasm is high, as evidenced by recent membership drives, this energy needs strategic direction to translate into electoral victories.
He articulated a concern that the NPP’s message in the Volta Region has been overshadowed by opponents, attributing this to outdated communication methods. Sulleyman’s core promise is a “paradigm shift” in political communication to effectively reposition the party.
Sulleyman’s Track Record and Professional Acumen
With a history of engagement within the NPP dating back to 2015 as a member of the Volta Regional Communication Team, Sulleyman highlighted his active media presence, particularly after the 2016 elections. He claims to have been a prominent voice, making numerous radio and television appearances and hosting weekly party programs to promote and defend the NPP when others had withdrawn.
His dedication earned him the moniker “Patriot Zain.” Sulleyman also pointed to his extensive use of social media platforms like Facebook, TikTok, X, and WhatsApp to broaden the party’s reach and promote its agenda. His experience extends beyond communication, encompassing roles in campaign teams, polling station agent training, and multiple attempts at the Regional Nasara Coordinator position.
Furthermore, Sulleyman has been involved with the Tertiary Students Confederacy (TESCON) and is a leading member of the volunteer group Agenda For Change (AFC). He stressed that his commitment is proven through tangible actions on the ground.
Professionally, Sulleyman draws on a background in communication, public relations, sales, marketing, branding, and journalism. He argues that modern political campaigns require strategic, data-driven approaches, stating, “The 2028 election will not be won by who shouts the loudest; it will be won by who strategises the smartest.” His experience includes managing crisis communication and brand positioning, particularly in the oil and gas sector, equipping him to “sell the NPP brand, protect our image, and deploy data-driven political communication to win the floating voters.”
A Three-Point Vision for Communication
Sulleyman has outlined a clear agenda for the Communication Secretariat, centered on three key pillars: strategic brand positioning, grassroots empowerment, and proactive messaging.
Under strategic brand positioning, his goal is to reshape public perception of the NPP in the Volta Region using contemporary communication techniques and tailored messaging. Grassroots empowerment involves equipping constituency and polling station communicators with essential tools, training, and information to effectively advocate for the party.
Crucially, Sulleyman advocates for a shift from a reactive stance to proactive communication. “We will no longer play defence. We will set the agenda and dictate the pace of the political conversation in the Volta Region,” he declared.
Call for Unity and Support
Driven by a desire to serve the party, Sulleyman pledged to collaborate with all stakeholders to enhance the NPP’s communication capabilities in the region. He described himself as a “servant, ready to work with every delegate, every executive, and every party sympathiser to build a formidable communication front.”
He plans to engage with party members across constituencies in the coming weeks to present his detailed blueprint. Sulleyman concluded by calling for unity and support, urging members to rally behind his vision to reposition the party and improve its electoral prospects in 2028.
Looking Ahead
Sulleyman’s candidacy signals a potential shift in how the NPP approaches communication in the Volta Region. His focus on data-driven strategies, modern techniques, and proactive messaging suggests an effort to modernize the party’s outreach. The success of his bid and the implementation of his vision will be closely watched as the NPP prepares for the critical 2028 elections, particularly in its efforts to gain ground in a region where it traditionally faces challenges.
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