Differences Between NPP and NDC: The Reality

The two main political parties in our beloved country are the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC). Since the inception of the Fourth Republic, these two parties have alternated in governing the nation, producing five Presidents in total—three from the NDC and two from the NPP.

There are notable differences between these two parties, particularly in organization, discipline, and internal cohesion.

The NDC, as a party, is known for its strong internal discipline and organization. Members adhere strictly to directives from their leadership. A classic example is when the party instructed its communicators to boycott Peace FM’s morning show with Kwami Sefa-Kayi. Not a single member defied the directive. This level of obedience and respect for leadership decisions is a hallmark of their unity.

Furthermore, NDC members rarely criticize their party openly, even when they disagree internally. They handle grievances discreetly, ensuring their internal disputes do not become public spectacles. When have you ever heard an NDC stalwart using derogatory language against their own leaders? Even in opposition, they maintained unity, packaging, protecting, and marketing John Mahama as a viable candidate for the electorate. Their loyalty and discipline were evident in how they treated Prof. Kwesi Botchwey’s report—no leaks, no public commentary, just strict adherence to leadership instructions.

This strategic discipline paid off, as the NDC is now back in power with an overwhelming majority in Parliament. Members who violated party rules were sanctioned, some even expelled. These actions demonstrated a party determined to return to power at all costs.

But what do we see in my beloved NPP?

Ironically, those within the NPP who should know better are the very ones undermining the party’s unity. Many of those who have benefited immensely from the party are the loudest critics, choosing to air grievances publicly rather than through internal mechanisms. Unlike the NDC, where senior members uphold party unity, our senior members are often the first to breach party discipline, openly disowning the party when it suits them.

We must admit that discipline—an essential ingredient in the growth of any group—is virtually non-existent in the NPP today. Our party’s great forebears—BJ da Rocha, JH Mensah, Adu Boahene, Agyeman Boateng, and others—would be deeply pained by the current state of affairs.

Just three months into opposition, internal bickering and public outbursts have already weakened the party’s image. I predict that the Prof. Oquaye Committee’s report will soon be leaked, providing ammunition for our opponents. Some party activists will likely demand its public release, further damaging our cohesion. Why can’t we learn from our opponents, the NDC, for once?

Despite these challenges, our 89 Members of Parliament are performing excellently, making the NDC majority look more like a liability. They need our unwavering support, not the embarrassment of internal party members rushing to the media to spew unguarded statements against leadership.

Those whose modus operandi is to disgrace the party will ultimately fail. We must unite, respect internal structures, and work together to recapture political power. The NPP is bigger than any individual, and our commitment should be to the party and the country above all else.

Let us stop the infighting, adhere to internal regulations, and focus on the bigger picture.

NPP will rise again.

Ahmed Osman
The Servant