Nana Akomea, Head of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Communications Committee, has publicly advocated for the party to actively seek reconciliation with former members, notably ex-Trade Minister Alan Kyerematen. Akomea argued on Tuesday, during an appearance on PM Express, that the NPP’s strategy to win over external voters, including those from the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) and undecided individuals, makes it counterproductive to alienate its own former members.
Internal Reconciliation as a Strategic Imperative
Akomea’s central argument is that a political party’s fundamental goal is to expand its electoral reach. “Because this work that you are doing as a political party, you are targeting even the NDC, you want to win over NDC supporters. You want to win over neutrals, don’t you?” he posited.
He directly linked this external outreach to the necessity of internal cohesion. “If you want to win NDC members to your side, how about your own member who, because of some events in the past, has stepped out?” he questioned.
Akomea identified these departed members as the party’s “natural constituencies.” He stressed that prioritizing rebuilding relationships with these individuals is crucial, especially when the party actively courts those with no inherent affiliation.
Addressing Past Grievances
The communications head suggested that many who left the party did so due to emotional hurt or misunderstandings. He expressed confidence that these issues are often resolvable with the passage of time and concerted effort.
“Basically, these people left because of some hurt feelings or misunderstanding. With the passage of time, you can bring them back, because you are already at the party,” Akomea explained.
Specific Call for Alan Kyerematen’s Return
When questioned directly about the timing for bringing Alan Kyerematen back into the NPP fold, Akomea affirmed that the moment is opportune. He specifically mentioned Kyerematen as a key figure in potential reconciliation efforts.
“That is one of the deals, especially for Alan specifically, and everyone else,” he stated.
Akomea further elaborated that if he were consulted by the party’s presumptive flagbearer, former Vice-President Mahamudu Bawumia, he would strongly advise reaching out to Kyerematen. “And Bawumia asked me, I would agree that Alan be approached. And if he’s approached and he wants to come back, all the better for the party,” he affirmed.
Context and Caveats
While Akomea made a strong case for reconciliation, he clarified that these specific discussions, particularly regarding approaching Alan Kyerematen, had not yet taken place with Dr. Bawumia.
“He hasn’t discussed it with me,” Akomea admitted. However, he reiterated his professional stance: “If he discusses it with me as part of his inner circle, I would advise it, because, as I said, you even want to engage the NDC who don’t have any natural love for your party.”
Future Implications
The NPP faces the upcoming general elections with a strategic imperative to consolidate its support and attract new voters. Akomea’s public call highlights a potential internal debate within the party regarding the best approach to achieve this. The willingness and ability of the NPP leadership, particularly Dr. Bawumia, to heed such advice could significantly impact the party’s electoral fortunes. Observers will be watching closely to see if concrete steps are taken to engage with figures like Alan Kyerematen and other estranged members, and what impact these efforts might have on party unity and voter mobilization in the lead-up to the elections.
Leave a Reply