The incumbent National Youth Organiser of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Salam Mustapha, has strangely withdrawn from the race for the position of National Organiser of the party.
Mr Mustapha, who led the party’s youth wing during the 2024 general election to defeat, announced his withdrawal at the eleventh hour, citing what he described as “circumstances beyond [his] control.”
He, however, did not disclose the specific circumstances that informed his decision, despite having received what he described as significant support and encouragement from party members and delegates across the country.
His decision has triggered speculation within NPP circles, with some party insiders alleging that he may have been prevailed upon to step aside in favour of another contender, Daniel Nii Kwartei Titus-Glover, who is considered as flagbearer’s alleged choice.
Other claims circulating within the party suggest that Mr Mustapha may have taken the decision after assessing his chances on the ground, particularly amid concerns about his leadership style and relationship with sections of the party’s grassroots during the NPP’s previous administration.
‘Difficult decision’
In a letter to the Chairman of the NPP National Officers Elections Committee on Wednesday, September 9, Mr Mustapha formally communicated his decision to discontinue his candidature.
He described the decision as a difficult one, particularly in view of the support he had received from party members, delegates, colleagues and well-wishers.
“This decision has been a difficult one, particularly considering the encouragement, goodwill and overwhelming support I have received from Party members, delegates, colleagues and well-wishers across the country. However, due to circumstances beyond my control, I am unable to continue with my candidature,” he said.
Despite his withdrawal, Mr Mustapha said his commitment to the NPP remained firm and pledged to continue contributing to the party’s rebuilding efforts.
“My dedication to the Party remains firm, and I will continue to serve and contribute towards its unity, rebuilding and electoral success, and also to make Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia the next president of Ghana,” he stated.
Mr Mustapha also urged his supporters to accept his decision in good faith and remain focused on what he described as the broader interests of the party.
He said political positions should not supersede the collective interests of the NPP and its future electoral prospects.
“Political positions may come and go, but our commitment to the NPP and the future of our Party must remain greater than any individual ambition,” he said.
He subsequently wished the NPP and the other aspirants contesting the various positions well as the party prepares to elect new national officers.
NPP race
Mr Mustapha’s withdrawal comes as the NPP prepares for its national executive elections, which will determine a new crop of national officers to steer the affairs of the party ahead of the 2028 general election.
The National Organiser position is one of several influential positions being contested in the internal elections, with the party seeking to reorganise and rebuild following its defeat in the 2024 general election.
Mr Mustapha’s exit from the race is therefore expected to alter the dynamics of the National Organiser contest, particularly among delegates and supporters who had backed his candidature.
