The New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) flagbearer race has been hit by controversy following revelations that aspirants are allegedly required to pay a GH¢4 million “development fee” in addition to nomination and filing charges.
Former presidential hopeful Francis Addai Nimo disclosed that the fee, reportedly set by the party’s National Council, could be used as a basis for disqualification if unpaid.
“If you went to purchase your nomination form, it will include an amount of GH¢4 million set as the Development Fee. They [aspirants] are aware, and they are quiet. You will never know who has paid because it won’t come out to you,” Addai Nimo told JoyNews.
He challenged the media to press the NPP leadership for clarity, arguing that the lack of transparency raises serious concerns about fairness.
Party Insiders React
Another aspirant, Kwabena Agyapong, insisted that the national executive committee has no authority to impose such a levy.
“The national executive committee of the party has no business fixing development fees,” he said on Nhyira FM, demanding answers from the leadership.
Meanwhile, outspoken MP and flagbearer hopeful Kennedy Agyapong also confirmed the existence of the fee, describing it as “disgraceful.”
“I picked my form for GH¢100,000 and filed with another fee of GH¢500,000. I thought they were joking when I heard of the GH¢4 million. But three days ago, they gave me a deadline to pay. So, I had to give them GH¢4 million. Filing and contesting as a flagbearer now costs GH¢4.6 million,” Agyapong said.
He lamented that such exorbitant requirements exclude qualified aspirants and weaken the party’s democratic image.
Silence from Party Leadership
Although the NPP’s official communique on flagbearer guidelines made no mention of a “development fee,” insiders suggest it was quietly included in financial conditions set by the National Council.
With the deadline reportedly passed on September 5, the controversy threatens to overshadow the race as aspirants and party faithful demand accountability.
For many observers, the episode raises a critical question: Is the NPP’s flagbearer race being priced beyond the reach of capable leaders?
