NPP’s Thank You Tour exposing lingering anger, pain within party – Theo Acheampong

Political risk analyst and economist Dr. Theo Acheampong has observed that the governing New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) ongoing “Thank You Tour” has revealed deep-seated frustration and resentment among party members.

According to him, this signals unresolved tensions within its ranks.

Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile on Saturday, Acheampong noted that despite the tour’s intended purpose of appreciating supporters after the 2024 elections, the interactions have instead highlighted lingering discontent—both at the grassroots and leadership levels.

According to Acheampong, the visible friction during the tour, led by Vice President and NPP flagbearer Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, suggests that many party members remain unhappy with how the party managed national affairs while in power.

“What we are seeing at the top also shows that there is still pain and anger among the hierarchy and the grassroots,” he said. “They are not happy with the way state affairs were managed, and this fundamentally affected the party’s fortunes.”

Acheampong pointed to recent developments, including a now-deleted social media post by Education Minister Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, hinting at a possible future leadership bid, as evidence of internal divisions.

“The fact that other people are even suggesting a run shows me that there’s still a lot of anger and pain,” he explained. “They want change, but the change needed isn’t about religion or superficial fixes—it’s about addressing the core issues that led the party to opposition.”

The analyst stressed that the NPP must take responsibility for its shortcomings rather than merely appealing for unity.

“They have to own up. They have to apologize to Ghanaians, not just their party people,” he insisted, referencing earlier warnings from figures like former Speaker Prof. Mike Ocquaye about the party’s trajectory.

The tensions surfacing during the tour raise questions about the party’s cohesion ahead of future elections. If unaddressed, Dr Acheampong suggested, the discontent could weaken the NPP’s ability to regroup effectively.