PNC warns NPP against making flagbearer automatic party leader

The People’s National Convention (PNC) has warned the New Patriotic Party (NPP) not to adopt a constitutional amendment that would automatically link the party’s presidential candidate to the role of party leader when the NPP is in opposition. At the NPP’s National Delegates Conference in Kumasi on Saturday, October 3, the PNC delivered a solidarity message, describing its intervention as a friendly caution rather than interference. It cited reports that the conference might consider altering the party’s constitution to make the flagbearer the party leader even while the party is not in government. The PNC argued that the responsibilities of a presidential candidate and a party leader are distinct. A flagbearer fronts the party during elections, whereas a party leader must build organisational structures, reconcile internal factions and maintain accountability between elections. Concentrating both functions in one individual, the PNC said, could erode internal democracy and curb the emergence of fresh leadership. It stressed that its stance was meant to foster political fraternity, not to meddle in NPP affairs. The proposed amendment forms part of a set of constitutional changes on the conference agenda, which also includes other structural revisions. Delegates attending the gathering, numbering 7,163, will vote on the amendments, with the party’s Constitutional Amendment Committee confirming their final say. Beyond the constitutional debate, the PNC called for higher standards in Ghanaian political discourse, urging parties to refrain from insults and provocative language that can fracture national unity. It appealed to the NPP, the National Democratic Congress and all political formations to curb what it described as a growing moral decay in public debate. The PNC further urged the NPP to choose competent and effective officers capable of strengthening Ghana’s democratic consolidation. The party positioned itself as an alternative to the two dominant parties, asserting confidence that voters will back the PNC in the 2028 general election. The NPP conference, held at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium, proceeded with deliberations on constitutional reforms before moving on to the election of national officers.