Focus on Substance Over Numbers
Afenyo-Markin said strong democracies thrive not only on numbers but on leadership, resilience, and ideas that drive national development.
“I’m not in any way worried about the numbers. Like I indicated in my opening remarks in Parliament, it’s about substance,” he said. “Before the final destination, you need to demonstrate your weight. And for me, that is what enriches democracy.”
Lessons from NDC’s Revival
Afenyo-Markin compared the NPP’s current situation to that of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) during its time in opposition under Alban Bagbin. He said the NDC’s eventual comeback showed that political revival is possible through perseverance and unity.
“The state we find ourselves in as a party has happened before to the NDC. I draw a lot of inspiration from the Bagbin-era NDC opposition,” he noted.
He recalled how the NDC, after losing power in 2000, reorganised and returned to government in 2008. He said the NPP can achieve the same by being honest and cohesive.
Acknowledging Weakness and Building Forward
Afenyo-Markin admitted that every government faces both successes and failures. He mentioned that issues such as illegal mining and economic pressures affected the NPP’s support among the middle class and business community.
However, he highlighted major achievements such as the Free Senior High School policy and the One District, One Factory programme as lasting legacies.
“These policies benefited families and encouraged investment. Ghana became a good destination for business,” he said.
Call for Renewal and Unity
Despite setbacks, Afenyo-Markin believes the NPP can rebuild its strength and regain public trust. He urged party members to treat challenges as opportunities for renewal rather than despair.
