A youth-focused faction of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), the Young Elephants Study Group, has initiated an independent investigation into the party’s loss in the 2024 general elections.
In a press release on 11 January 2025, the group outlined its commitment to uncovering the factors behind the NPP’s electoral defeat.
The investigation will examine issues such as voter apathy among Generation Z, the disengagement of polling station executives, the impact of government policies on voter behaviour, low voter turnout, and divisions between the government and the party.
According to the group, they intend to complement the efforts of the party’s official committee by providing additional insights.
“The party has already established a committee to analyze the loss, but we believe diverse perspectives are vital for the NPP’s growth. Our findings will complement the party’s efforts and provide broader insights to strengthen and unite the NPP,” the group announced.
Young Elephants investigation
The youth-led initiative operates independently, focusing on the challenges faced by younger voters, particularly Generation Z, many of whom rejected the NPP at the polls. The group also aims to understand the reasons behind the disengagement of grassroots executives, acknowledging their pivotal role in the party’s electoral successes.
The investigation follows mounting internal scrutiny within the NPP after the historic election, which saw both leading presidential candidates—Mahamudu Bawumia of the NPP and John Mahama of the National Democratic Congress (NDC)—hailing from Ghana’s northern regions.
Despite this unique regional dynamic, the NPP struggled to achieve a decisive victory.
Critics have stressed the government’s failure to effectively communicate its policy successes, which alienated key sections of the electorate.
While the NPP’s official committee plans to focus on overarching strategies, campaign messaging, and the impact of economic challenges on voter sentiment, the Young Elephants’ study promises a grassroots perspective.
“Our investigation will ensure that the voices of the youth and grassroots are heard, and the insights will help shape future electoral strategies,” the group stated.
By identifying these critical issues, the Young Elephants aim to help rebuild the NPP’s foundation for future success.
Meanwhile, the NPP national executive body has also established an 11-member committee, chaired by former Speaker of Parliament, Prof. Mike Oquaye, to investigate the party’s loss in the elections.
The committee has been given a three-month period to conduct its work and report back to the National Council.
According to the party’s General Secretary, Justin Frimpong Kodua, the committee’s terms of reference include reviewing the internal elections and campaign strategy, as well as identifying the challenges that led to the electoral defeat and proposing solutions.
Former President John Dramani Mahama was declared the winner of the 2024 presidential election, marking a remarkable return to office after a contentious race. The Electoral Commission (EC) announced on December 9 that Mahama secured 6,328,397 votes, representing 56.55% of the valid votes cast defeating Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, his main rival from the NPP, who garnered 4,657,304 votes, or 41.61%.
Mahama’s victory also delivered a major win for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), which clinched a majority in Parliament.
Over 183 seats have been confirmed for the NDC, including key constituencies previously held by the NPP, strengthening Mahama’s mandate as he prepares to resume the presidency.
By Alhassan Abass/thenewsbulletin24.com