The External Branches of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) are calling for a clear, time-bound plan to implement the Representation of the People (Amendment) Act, 2006 (Act 699), known as ROPAA, to enable Ghanaians living abroad to vote in national elections.
In a statement ahead of the party’s National Delegates Conference in Kumasi, the group said Ghanaians abroad had waited two decades to exercise their voting rights under the law, describing the continued delay in implementation as unacceptable.
It wants the Electoral Commission (EC) to publish a costed implementation plan within 90 days, detailing the legal framework, voter registration and voting arrangements, with full implementation before the 2028 general elections.
The group is also seeking reforms to the NPP’s internal electoral system, including secure electronic voting for members abroad and increased representation for External Branches in the party’s decision-making structures.
It welcomed the Supreme Court’s ruling on broader participation in internal party elections and urged the incoming NPP leadership to publish a programme outlining how the decision would be implemented.
On the reported seizure of about four tonnes of cocaine allegedly linked to a container from Ghana, the External Branches called for a comprehensive investigation into how the consignment passed through the country’s port.
The group said investigators must establish whether the incident resulted from negligence, procedural lapses or collusion, insisting that the inquiry should follow the evidence regardless of whether it implicates public officials or politically connected individuals.
It also expressed concern that the case could affect legitimate Ghanaian exporters if it leads to increased scrutiny of cargo originating from the country.
The group therefore urged the Ghana Export Promotion Authority to engage exporters to determine whether the incident had resulted in delays, additional costs or other disruptions to legitimate trade.
On freedom of expression, the External Branches maintained that citizens must be able to criticise governments without intimidation. However, it said threats, incitement and deliberate falsehoods should be addressed through lawful processes.
The statement also referred to the case involving nurse Salomey Awiti Baffoe, calling for her release on appropriate bail through the judicial process.
The group further opposed a proposed constitutional amendment that would make the NPP’s presidential candidate the leader of the party.
It argued that the existing provision, which designates the National Chairperson as the party’s leader, should be retained and allowed to operate.
The External Branches, which represent 30 branches, said they had submitted proposals to amend Article 8 of the NPP Constitution and related provisions to strengthen the participation of members living abroad.
The proposed changes include increased representation for External Branches on the National Executive Committee and National Council, greater participation by chapters, standardised structures for branches abroad and a constitutional basis for members to vote in their countries of residence.
Ahead of the Kumasi conference, the group also appealed to delegates to maintain unity after the internal elections.
It said members of the External Branches were prepared to contribute resources, expertise and organisational support to the party’s future activities.
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