Former Chief of Staff Kwadwo Mpiani has criticized the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) ongoing ‘Thank You tour’, calling for its immediate suspension. He believes the tour is ill-timed and unhelpful following the party’s defeat in the 2024 general elections. Speaking on JoyNews’ The Pulse, Mpiani described the tour as a “misplaced priority” and urged party leaders to focus on internal reflection and addressing the issues that contributed to the electoral loss.
According to Mpiani, the NPP should take a step back, go indoors, and find a way out of the current situation. Although he is not aware of the reasons behind the decision to embark on the tour, he questions its timing and warns that it might deepen internal divisions. Mpiani suggests that the party should suspend the tour, look at the issues, and find a better way to approach its members.
The ‘Thank You tour’ was initiated by Dr. Bawumia, the 2024 flagbearer of the NPP, as part of efforts to rebuild and re-energize the party ahead of the 2028 elections. The tour aims to appreciate the contributions of party members during the last campaign. However, Mpiani’s criticism highlights the need for the party to prioritize introspection and address its internal challenges rather than engaging in public relations exercises.
The NPP’s decision to keep the contents of a report by a 12-member committee, chaired by Prof Mike Oquaye, confidential has also raised questions about the party’s transparency and willingness to confront its weaknesses. As the party navigates its post-election challenges, Mpiani’s call for a more introspective approach may resonate with those seeking meaningful reforms within the party.