NPP–UK North London Member Petitions Party Leadership to Create Diaspora Polling Centres Ahead of Presidential Primaries

Nov 25, 2025 - 07:52
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NPP–UK North London Member Petitions Party Leadership to Create Diaspora Polling Centres Ahead of Presidential Primaries
Kwame Boakye, NPP-UK North London Member

By E Adu Gyamfi

(odopa2@gmail.com) 

A member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP)–United Kingdom (UK) North London Chapter, Thomas Oheneba Kwame Boakye, has formally petitioned the party’s national leadership to establish polling centres across Diaspora branches ahead of the upcoming presidential primaries.

In his petition addressed to the General Secretary and copied to the Presidential Elections Committee, Mr. Boakye urged the NPP’s National Executive to consider an inclusive voting framework that enables members abroad to participate fully in the party’s internal democratic process without undue financial or logistical hardship.

The appeal follows reports that proxy voting may not be allowed in the forthcoming primaries — a policy shift aimed at improving transparency.

However, the decision, he argued, could unintentionally disenfranchise thousands of dedicated NPP members living overseas, many of whom have been vital to the party’s fundraising and mobilisation drives over the years.

“The travel cost, visa processes, and other expenses involved in returning to Ghana solely to cast a vote pose serious constraints for many,” Mr. Boakye stated.

“Allowing members abroad to vote at designated Diaspora polling centres, under proper supervision, would ensure broader participation and further strengthen the democratic spirit of the NPP.”

The petition outlines four key benefits of the proposed arrangement: Deepening inclusivity and representation within the party. Reducing financial burdens on Diaspora members. Encouraging greater engagement and ownership among international branches. Strengthening unity and mobilisation efforts ahead of the 2028 elections.

Political observers note that Mr. Boakye’s proposal underscores a growing global conversation on Diaspora inclusion in African political systems, as major parties across the continent seek to formalise participation of citizens living abroad.

The petition was copied to Hon. Joseph Osei Owusu, Chairman of the NPP Presidential Elections Committee; the External Affairs Directorate; and Kingsley Adumattah Agyapong, Chairman of the NPP–UK Branch.

“This decision would not only uphold fairness but also demonstrate that the NPP values every member, regardless of geography,” Mr. Boakye concluded.

As the NPP prepares for a highly anticipated internal contest, the call from the UK North London Chapter could signal a defining moment in party democracy — bridging the gap between homeland politics and the global Ghanaian community.

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