Emerging developments within the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) suggest a deepening internal debate over the future of its parliamentary leadership, with multiple sources indicating a strategic push to replace Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin before the close of 2026.
According to credible party insiders within the office of Mahamudu Bawumia, the NPP’s National Secretariat, and sections of its parliamentary caucus, discussions are far advanced regarding a possible reshuffle of the Minority leadership.
The move, sources say, forms part of a broader political recalibration aimed at strengthening the party’s internal cohesion and positioning ahead of the 2028 general elections.
At the heart of the matter is a growing belief among influential party figures that Dr. Bawumia widely regarded as the party’s central figure heading into 2028 requires a parliamentary leader with whom he can work seamlessly and strategically.
Several insiders argue that the current arrangement does not provide the level of alignment necessary to execute the party’s long-term electoral strategy.
Concerns over loyalty and internal alliances have also come to the fore.
Some party members allege that Mr. Afenyo-Markin’s political inclinations appear more closely aligned with outspoken former Assin Central MP, Kennedy Agyapong, whose relationship with sections of the party leadership has reportedly become strained following the 2026 presidential primaries.
The situation is further complicated by persistent claims of a breakaway faction known as “The Base,” believed by some to be associated with Mr. Agyapong.
Critics within the party have expressed unease over what they describe as Mr. Afenyo-Markin’s “silence” on these alleged developments, interpreting it as a potential signal of divided loyalties. While these claims remain largely speculative, they have nonetheless fueled internal mistrust and intensified calls for a leadership change.
Equally significant are concerns regarding the Minority Leader’s working relationship with key pro-Bawumia Members of Parliament.
Prominent among them are Frank Annor Dompreh, Habib Iddrisu, and Mustapha Ussif.
Sources indicate that tensions between these figures and Mr. Afenyo-Markin have affected coordination within the caucus, with some MPs accusing him of making unilateral decisions without adequate consultation.
“These concerns go beyond personality differences,” one party insider noted on condition of anonymity. “It is about ensuring that the parliamentary leadership reflects the strategic direction of the party as we prepare for 2028.”
Further adding to the list of grievances is Mr. Afenyo-Markin’s perceived absence from key grassroots initiatives.
Some MPs point to recent advocacy efforts led by figures such as Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, Mr. Annor Dompreh, and Nana Ayew Afriyie, who have been actively engaging cocoa farmers nationwide on issues related to fair pricing.
Critics argue that the Minority Leader’s non-participation in such activities raises questions about his commitment to core campaign priorities and his alignment with the party’s electoral messaging.
Supporters of a leadership change contend that maintaining the status quo could undermine the party’s unity and weaken its prospects in the next general election. They argue that a more cohesive and strategically aligned parliamentary front is essential for advancing the NPP’s agenda and consolidating support across key constituencies.
However, it is worth noting that no official decision has been announced by the party leadership, and Mr. Afenyo-Markin has not publicly responded to the allegations or the reported calls for his removal. Political analysts caution that internal restructuring, while sometimes necessary, must be handled with care to avoid deepening divisions within the party.
As the NPP navigates this delicate phase, the coming months are expected to be pivotal in determining not only the composition of its parliamentary leadership but also the broader unity and direction of the party heading into the 2028 elections.
For now, the debate continues behind closed doors, with the outcome likely to shape the party’s political fortunes in the years ahead.
