Dr. Charles Dwamena(Dr China) , the National Treasurer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has proposed a significant reform to the party’s electoral college system.
He has then Called for the Inclusion of all former executive members, Patrons and Financiers in the electoral College of NPP.
According to Dr. China, the current system should be expanded to include all card-bearing members who pay their dues from branch to national level. This move aims to give every member an equal opportunity to participate in presidential and parliamentary primaries.
Current Electoral College System.
The NPP’s current electoral college system consists of various stakeholders, including :
– Members of Parliament and Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executes: 398
– Ministers and Deputies: 28
– Foundation Members: 50
– National Council: 61
– Patrons and Council of Elders: 30
– Regional Officers: 272
– Constituency Officers: 4,675
– Constituency Patrons: 1,375
– Constituency Co-Elders: 1,375
– Electoral Area Coordinators: 6,272
– Polling Station Executives: 193,110
– Overseas Branches: 405
– TESCON: 291
The total number of delegates in the current system is approximately 208,342.
Dr. China’s Proposal.
Dr. China’s proposal seeks to democratize the party’s electoral process by giving more members a say in the selection of presidential and parliamentary candidates.
If implemented, the reform would allow all card-bearing members to vote in primaries, ensuring that every member has an equal opportunity to participate in the decision-making process.
Alternative Solution.
In the event that logistical constraints prevent all members from voting, Dr. China suggests that at least former appointees, patrons, and party financiers should be given the opportunity to vote. This would ensure that key stakeholders who have contributed significantly to the party’s growth and development have a say in its decision-making process.
Implications of the Reform.
The proposed reform has significant implications for the NPP’s electoral process. If implemented, it would :
– Increase member participation: By giving all card-bearing members the right to vote, the party would increase member participation and engagement in the electoral process.
– Enhance democracy: The reform would promote democracy within the party by ensuring that every member has an equal say in the selection of candidates.
– Improve representation: The inclusion of more members in the electoral process would ensure that the party’s candidates better represent the interests of its members.
Overall, Dr. China’s proposal has sparked a crucial debate about the NPP’s electoral college system and the need for reform.
As the party considers this proposal, it will be essential to weigh the benefits and challenges of expanding the electoral college system.
Source:Ayisah Foster||Punch newspaper
