NPP Insiders Helped Mahama's Comeback, Says Mustapha Gbande
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) victory in the recent polls was fueled not only by the party’s resurgence but also by unexpected support from within the New Patriotic Party (NPP), according to NDC Deputy General Secretary, Mustapha Gbande.
Speaking on Joy News’ PM Express, Mr. Gbande revealed that many NPP insiders felt the country was heading towards a precipice and consequently backed the NDC candidate, John Mahama. He emphasized that the NDC had thoroughly analyzed the reasons behind their 2016 defeat.
“We learnt bitter lessons in 2016,” he stated. “The party now understands we erred by not firmly supporting John Mahama to see his vision through.”
According to Mr. Gbande, the void left after Mahama’s departure highlighted the abandonment of crucial policies and projects. He cited unattended road construction, stalled hospital projects, and neglected school developments as evidence of this decline.
He further acknowledged the significant role played by civil society organizations and individuals who championed what he termed “nationalistic causes.” The media, he added, also stood firm in upholding the truth.
“The NDC’s rank and file believed change was possible and rallied behind the leadership,” Mr. Gbande explained. “But crucially, we received enormous support from elements within the NPP who felt the government had lost its way.”
When pressed for details, Mr. Gbande reiterated that these NPP members believed the nation needed saving and had “had enough.” He remained tight-lipped on the specifics of the support, stating it came in “many ways” and he would “keep it political.”
He asserted that even within the NPP’s base, there was a growing concern that President Akufo-Addo’s leadership was steering the country towards collapse, a situation they were unwilling to accept. This sentiment, he believes, contributed significantly to the NDC’s substantial win.
Mr. Gbande dismissed the notion that the NDC’s victory was solely due to the NPP’s weakness. He firmly stated that the win was a result of a strong, united NDC with capable executives. “Every level of the party was ready to work as a team,” he said.
He also highlighted the credibility of the flagbearer and his clear vision for the country, which resonated with voters. Furthermore, he pointed to the impact of the running mate, now Vice President, as the first female presidential hopeful, as a key factor in shifting the political narrative.
“All these elements were clear indicators of why the NDC emerged victorious,” Mr. Gbande concluded.
Image Source: MYJOYONLINE
