Ghana Diaspora Tensions Rise as NPP Upholds Proxy Voting Ban for 2026 Primary

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) of Ghana has intensified internal controversy after reaffirming its ban on proxy voting for the 2026 presidential primary, despite repeated appeals from its global membership. The announcement followed a closed-door meeting in Accra, where the Election Committee insisted that only delegates physically present at polling centres would be allowed to vote.

Committee Chairman Joe Osei Owusu explained that the decision was aimed at ensuring a transparent and incident-free election. He noted that while several petitions were reviewed, the party leadership concluded that in-person voting remains the most credible approach for a closely contested primary.

Diaspora branches, however, have sharply criticised the decision, arguing that it violates the NPP constitution and denies legitimate delegates abroad their voting rights. They maintain that external branches have historically relied on proxy voting due to geographical limitations, making physical participation impractical.

A petition submitted on November 10 claimed that the Election Committee overstepped its mandate by unilaterally imposing the ban without the required consultation with the National Executive Committee (NEC) and the National Council. Delegates warned that the directive would unfairly force overseas voters to bear heavy travel and accommodation costs.

Supporters of the ban have pushed back, submitting a counter-petition describing the earlier document as misleading. Some diaspora executives, including the NPP Sweden Branch, insisted they were listed as signatories without consent and argued that proxy voting has previously created verification loopholes.

They maintained that the Election Committee acted within its constitutional authority, stressing that internal elections must prioritise integrity. According to this group, the logistical challenges tied to proxy voting have repeatedly raised concerns during past primaries.

A third petition from NPP constituency executives studying or residing temporarily outside Ghana added further complexity. They argued that proxy voting is established practice within the party and has never recorded any abuse, urging the NEC to overturn the ban and restore inclusive participation.

The NEC has yet to respond to the competing petitions, leaving the party divided as it prepares for the January 31, 2026 presidential primary. With diaspora members demanding recognition and party leaders emphasising electoral integrity, the NPP faces a defining test of its internal democracy.