The Executive Director of the African Institute of Strategic Studies, Dr. Jonathan Asante Otchere, has praised the vision outlined by New Patriotic Party (NPP) national chairman aspirant Paul Afoko, describing his campaign message as impressive and capable of repositioning him within the party.
Speaking on Eyewitness News on Tuesday, July 14, Dr. Asante Otchere said Afoko’s speech, which focused on rebuilding and uniting the NPP, was well crafted and presented him in a new light.
“Let me say that I’ve read his speech, and to the point that whether I should stop or not, the speech has been brilliantly reflected. Whoever wrote that speech for Mr. Afoko has done really well. It has positioned him in a different light altogether,” he said.
However, he noted that the impact of the message on the outcome of the upcoming election within the party would depend on how delegates receive it.
“But as to whether that will reflect in the election well, only time will tell,” he added.
Dr. Asante Otchere highlighted Afoko’s reference to former President Dr. Kofi Abrefa Busia’s principles, particularly the importance of protecting dissenting voices within the party.
“One that caught my eye was the one that he attributed or referenced of Dr Busia. He said a dissenter must have the right to be protected to dissent within the party,” he said.
According to him, Afoko’s acknowledgment of challenges within the NPP and his commitment to reconciliation, restructuring and regaining power represent important themes for the party as it seeks to recover from its recent electoral defeat.
He said Afoko’s message of reconciliation and rebuilding could strengthen his bid for the national chairmanship position.
Afoko, in announcing his intention to contest the NPP national chairmanship race on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, said his decision was motivated by the need to provide leadership at what he described as a critical moment for the party.
He outlined his vision around what he called the “three Rs” — Reunite, Rebuild and Recapture Power.
The former NPP chairman candidate said his focus would be on bringing members together, strengthening the party’s structures and leading efforts to return the party to government.
