NPP approves 14 constitutional amendments despite earlier call to defer exercise

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has approved 14 constitutional amendments during its National Delegates Conference in Kumasi, despite Acting National Chairman Joseph Danquah Smith's previous proposal to postpone the exercise. The amendments were discussed at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium as part of the party's congress agenda, preceding the election of new national officers.

Smith had suggested delaying the constitutional review due to time constraints and concerns about delegates' ability to adequately consider the proposals while also participating in the elections. However, the party proceeded with the review, approving all 14 motions presented by the Constitution Amendment Committee. One significant change reverses the position of the party's leader, designating the flagbearer as the leader instead of the National Chairman.

The amendments also alter the election process for Vice Chairpersons, introducing specific positions rather than a first, second, and third choice system. Additionally, three new Vice Chairpersons will be appointed without election, and the IT Officer's status is upgraded to an executive position. The amendments aim to rectify gaps in the party's organizational structure ahead of the 2028 general elections.

Chairman of the NPP Constitution Amendment Committee, Frank Davies, emphasized the importance of approving the changes due to their impact on the party's organizational structure. The NPP conference is currently divided into two main stages: constitutional amendment consideration and the election of new national officers. Out of 7,163 delegates from all 16 regions, votes are being cast for nine national executive positions.

The Electoral Commission is overseeing the elections and confirming delegate eligibility. Post the approval of the constitutional amendments, delegates moved on to the national executive elections, with results anticipated later today.