There is serious political maneuvering within the New Patriotic Party (NPP) which has intensified as Patrick Boamah, Member of Parliament (MP) for Okaikwei Central, is reportedly lobbying to become the Minority Leader in Ghana’s Parliament.
This bid comes amidst a contentious post-election environment and internal wrangling within the opposition party.
Inside sources reveal that Boamah is actively seeking the support of influential political figures, including former President John Agyekum Kufuor and the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, to solidify his position.
Allegedly, these figures are being used to persuade President John Mahama not to pursue legal action against Boamah, whose recent electoral victory is mired in controversy.
Disputed Electoral Victory
Boamah’s parliamentary seat win has come under scrutiny following allegations of irregularities during the collation of results.
Reports suggest that Boamah initially lost the election, but the Electoral Commission (EC) reversed the outcome through what critics describe as a questionable “re-collation” process.
This development has fuelled suspicions that Mahama and his party, the National Democratic Congress (NDC), may challenge the results in court to overturn Boamah’s victory.
Sources close to Boamah claim his push to assume the Minority Leader position stems from a desire to shield himself from legal and political vulnerabilities, particularly as tensions escalate.
“Patrick knows the battle isn’t over,” a source disclosed. “Mahama is determined to pursue the matter legally, and becoming the Minority Leader could give Boamah the political leverage and platform to defend himself effectively.”
Regional Representation Battle
Beyond Boamah’s personal ambitions, his bid has triggered factional disputes within the NPP.
MPs from the Ashanti Region, the party’s stronghold, are insisting that the Minority Leader position should go to one of their own.
They argue that the Ashanti Region, which boasts the highest number of MPs in Parliament, deserves representation in leadership.
A senior MP from the Ashanti Region, speaking anonymously, emphasized the need for fair regional representation.
“We are the backbone of the NPP in Parliament. The numbers don’t lie, and it’s only fair that the Minority Leader comes from the Ashanti bloc,” the MP said.
This assertion has created friction with MPs from the Central Region and Greater Accra, who feel sidelined despite their contributions to the party’s electoral success.
The unfolding drama has exposed underlying divisions within the NPP at a time when the party is struggling to regroup after its electoral defeat. Analysts warn that the leadership battle could further weaken the party’s unity and embolden the ruling NDC.
According to some political analyst, this infighting sends the wrong message to supporters and the general public.
It is believed that Patrick Boamah’s reliance on influential figures such as former President Kufuor and the Asantehene could complicate matters.
As tensions rise, the NPP faces a crucial decision regarding its parliamentary leadership.
While Boamah’s supporters argue that his experience and legal background make him a strong candidate for the Minority Leader role, critics view his bid as a self-preservation strategy rather than a unifying move for the party.
Meanwhile, all eyes remain on President Mahama and the NDC’s next steps regarding the disputed election results.
A potential legal battle could not only affect Boamah’s political future but also shape the leadership dynamics within Parliament.
