'NPP couldn’t Break the 8 because they Broke the Economy' - Theo Acheampong

Political risk analyst Dr. Theo Acheampong says the New Patriotic Party (NPP) lost the 2024 election due to economic failure, not religious issues.

“They couldn’t break the 8 because they broke the economy,” he stated on Joy News’ Newsfile Express on May 3.

Dr. Acheampong rejected claims that religion influenced the party’s defeat.

“The evidence on the religious argument is complete hogwash,” he asserted.

He emphasized that the NPP's loss was solely due to economic mismanagement.

He listed several economic mistakes, including the domestic debt exchange program and the unpopular E-Levy. He also mentioned rising inflation as a significant factor.

In 2022, he called for Ken Ofori-Atta's removal, stating his position was untenable.

Dr. Acheampong noted that these issues hurt the party's chances.

“It had nothing to do with Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia being Muslim,” he said.

Analyzing election results, he pointed out that NPP lost support across all regions, not just in Christian areas.

“If they had managed the economy better after COVID, they could have broken the eight,” he explained.

He echoed Dr. Bawumia’s comments about their loss being linked to high living costs and “the arrogance of power.”

Dr. Acheampong highlighted that even within the NDC, many Christian candidates lost their races.

“So what is the religious argument here?” he questioned. “When people are hungry and inflation exceeds 54%, religion doesn’t matter.”

He insisted that NPP’s failure was predictable. “The warning signs were there; Ghanaians would punish them if they didn’t change course.”

He also discussed ongoing discontent within the party.

“There’s still pain and anger among grassroots supporters and party leaders,” he observed.

The economist noted new aspirants emerging within NPP as significant.

“Just this week, Dr. Yaw Adutwum hinted at a possible run,” he said, mentioning a now-deleted post.

Dr. Acheampong believes there is strong demand for change in NPP but warns it must focus on real issues.

“This change can’t be based on religion; it must address what caused their defeat,” he stated firmly.

He concluded with a clear message: “They have to own up and apologize to Ghanaians.”