I have given my soul to NPP – General Secretary hopeful
As the New Patriotic Party (NPP) begins the long road to reorganisation and recovery after its painful defeat in the 2024 general elections, some prominent party members have stepped forward with bold declarations of intent.
Two former Members of Parliament, Eugene Boakye Antwi and Henry Kwabena Kokofu, have both confirmed their interest in contesting for the General Secretary position, one of the most critical roles in the party’s hierarchy.
Their announcements come at a time when the NPP is under serious pressure to rebuild trust, win back lost support, and unite the rank and file ahead of the next elections.
Eugene Boakye Antwi:
“I’ll Offer My Life and Soul for the NPP”
In a passionate interview on Peace FM on Tuesday, 20th May 2025, Eugene Boakye Antwi, a former Member of Parliament for the Subin Constituency, declared that he is ready to give his life and soul to bring the NPP back to power.
Eugene, who has been an active member of the NPP for many years and served diligently in Parliament, made it clear that the time has come for the party to redefine its direction and rebuild confidence among Ghanaians.
“The people you elect to lead this party will determine its success,” he said. “I believe I am someone who can offer my life and soul for this party to work and bring the party back to power.”
According to him, the NPP’s recent loss in 2024 was a wake-up call. He noted that many important groups, including young people, women, academics, market women, and business owners, have lost trust in the party.
He attributed this situation to poor leadership choices and the party’s posture in recent years. Eugene believes that bringing in leaders with credibility, integrity, and an open-door leadership style is the only way to win these groups back.
“We have to return to our roots. The NPP was built on principles of fairness, hard work, inclusiveness, and honesty. We need leaders who live by these values—not just when campaigning, but every day,” he added.
Positioning himself as a natural candidate for the General Secretary role, Eugene Boakye Antwi said he is prepared to rise when the time comes.
Henry Kokofu:
“I Am Ready in Mind, Might, and Spirit”
Just a day before Eugene’s bold declaration, another party stalwart, Henry Kwabena Kokofu, also announced his intention to contest for the same position.
Speaking on Okay FM on Monday, 19th May 2025, the former MP for Bantama Constituency said he is ready in mind, might, and everything to serve the party at the highest level.
“There have been discussions and reflections, and I have come to the firm decision that when the party opens nominations, I will contest for the General Secretary position,” Kokofu said confidently.
Kokofu explained that his motivation stems from a deep desire to help the party reorganise and bring everyone together. He believes the NPP needs a leader who can unite the base, calm tensions, and ensure that every member feels heard and valued.
“It is the unity factor that motivates me,” he said. “We need a unifier, someone who will create space for everyone’s voice to be heard. I believe God has blessed me with that ability.”
A Race for Revival: NPP’s Search for New Leadership
After eight years in government, the NPP lost the 2024 presidential and parliamentary elections—a huge blow that has shaken the party to its core. With power now out of their hands, the party is facing a moment of deep reflection, soul-searching, and renewal.
In response, the NPP has begun a reorganisation process. This includes listening to the grassroots, reviewing past mistakes, and electing new leaders to guide the party into the future. The General Secretary role, which is currently held by Justin Frimpong Kodua, will be one of the most watched and contested positions.
Already, several names have come up, including Eugene Boakye Antwi and Henry Kokofu. Others are expected to enter the race soon.
What Does the General Secretary Do?
In the NPP structure, the General Secretary is not just a title—it is one of the most powerful and demanding roles in the party. The person in this position oversees:
The daily running of the party’s activities.
Coordination of party structures from the national to the polling station level.
Organising elections and ensuring unity within the party.
Serving as a chief administrator and record keeper.
In short, the general secretary is like the engine of the party. Whoever takes up the mantle must be someone with energy, experience, discipline, and strong communication skills.
Party at a Crossroads—Unity or Division?
But there are also those who believe that this healthy competition is necessary for the party to renew itself, flush out poor leadership, and bring in fresh energy and ideas.
In the words of a delegate in Kumasi: “We are watching closely. We want leaders who will work for the people, not themselves. Whether it’s Kokofu or Eugene, we want someone who can bring back our lost glory.”
A New Chapter for NPP?
With the 2024 election loss still fresh, the NPP is entering a critical phase. The party needs to pick itself up, reconnect with the people, and prepare for 2028.
As Eugene Boakye Antwi pledges his life and soul and Henry Kokofu promises to give his mind and might, party delegates and supporters will have some serious decisions to make in the coming months.