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Former Ashanti NPP Youth Organiser Backs Chairman COKA’s Committee Initiative
Sarfo Raphael Patrick calls for broader consultation, grassroots participation and collective responsibility in strengthening the party’s regional structures
By:Justice Baffour Awuah | DailyWatchGH.com-0246930931
Former Ashanti Regional Youth Organiser of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Sarfo Raphael Patrick (Raph), has commended Ashanti Regional Chairman Odeneho Kwaku Appiah (Chairman COKA) and his Regional Executive for establishing various committees aimed at strengthening the Party’s internal organisation and coordination.
According to Mr. Patrick, the formation of the committees, including the Regional Committees established to draw on the expertise of experienced party members, professionals, former and current officers and grassroots activists, provides an important avenue for wider participation in the affairs of the Party.
In a press release, the former Regional Youth Organiser said the initiative could help create a more organised, consultative and responsive Regional Secretariat if the committees are effectively utilised.
He stressed that the size and diversity of the NPP require a collective approach to party administration, arguing that no individual or group could single-handedly address the organisational needs of the Party.
Lessons From Previous Administration
Reflecting on his own experience, Mr. Patrick acknowledged that the previous administration could have placed greater emphasis on broader consultative and functional structures.
He said the absence of adequate committee structures and wider participation at certain stages affected coordination, communication and the ability of the regional leadership to respond effectively to concerns from different sections of the Party.
He,however, cautioned against interpreting the observation as an attempt to blame individuals or reopen past divisions.
Rather,he said,the experience should provide lessons that can inform efforts to strengthen the Party’s organisational structures going forward.
“This is not about blaming individuals or reopening old divisions. Rather,it is about drawing useful lessons from the past and applying them to build a stronger, more effective Party going forward,” he said.
Grassroots Participation
Mr. Patrick further stressed the importance of ensuring that party members at the constituency, electoral-area and polling-station levels have meaningful opportunities to contribute to the regional agenda.
He noted that the grassroots structures constitute an important foundation of the Party and should therefore remain connected to regional decision-making and implementation processes.
He said inclusivity should not be limited to appointments but should also involve listening to different perspectives and making use of the skills, experience and expertise available within the Party.
Call for Support
The former Regional Youth Organiser called on NPP members across the Ashanti Region to support the Regional Chairman and his Executive in their efforts to strengthen the Party’s structures.
He particularly urged members appointed to the various committees to regard their positions as responsibilities to serve the Party and contribute practical ideas towards addressing organisational challenges.
He also appealed to constituency executives,polling-station executives,youth and women organisers, Nasara coordinators,TESCON members, former executives and other stakeholders to participate actively in the process and provide constructive input.
According to him,broader participation would help the Regional Secretariat become more responsive to the needs and concerns of party members across the region.
Appeal for Constructive Engagement
Mr.Patrick also appealed to party members to manage their differences through dialogue and constructive engagement,stressing that disagreements over personalities,methods or approaches should not be allowed to undermine the Party’s organisational development.
He urged members to prioritise collaboration and service while making room for legitimate contributions from different sections of the Party.
“Chairman COKA and his Executive have opened the door to greater teamwork,consultation and inclusivity. Let us walk through that door together-united in purpose, disciplined in action and committed to the future of our Party,” he stated.
Mr.Patrick said the immediate focus should be on strengthening the Party’s structures, improving coordination and ensuring that the experiences and capabilities of its members are effectively harnessed for organisational development.
Issued by:
Sarfo Raphael Patrick (Raph)
Former Ashanti Regional Youth Organiser
New Patriotic Party (NPP)
