Paul Afoko blames NPP factionalism for 2015 removal, vows to unite party

Paul Afoko, a hopeful candidate for National Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has attributed his 2015 removal from office to factionalism within the party. In an interview with JoyNews, Mr Afoko described himself as one of the most significant victims of internal divisions. He acknowledged that while the circumstances surrounding his removal were painful, he has moved past the incident and is now focused on fostering unity within the party.

"If you want an example of somebody who has suffered from this factionalism, severely suffered, then I am the example," he stated. Mr Afoko confirmed that he believed factionalism was a key factor in his removal, adding that his conviction was later validated by events. He recognized that factionalism exists in political parties globally but emphasized that its presence does not inherently pose a problem.

The real issue, he argued, lies in how members navigate their differences. "There are factions. We can't run away from that," he said, using China's ruling Communist Party as an example, noting that their approach revolves around collaboration. When asked about his return to active politics, Mr Afoko clarified that his motivation was no longer driven by resentment but by a deep concern for the NPP's future and Ghana's democracy.

The emotional pain he experienced in 2015 eventually subsided after a year, but he remains committed to the party's well-being. His current focus is on healing divisions and uniting the party, regardless of past disagreements. "I seek to unite the party," he declared. He made it clear that he reaches out to all party members, regardless of their stance towards his previous chairmanship.

Afoko urged party members to transcend past differences for the collective good of the NPP. He has already begun visiting party members across the country ahead of the organization's internal elections, having completed two tours in the past year.