Richard Ahiagbah, the Communications Director of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has defended the party’s decision to charge a total of GH₵600,000 as part of the nomination process for its upcoming presidential primaries.
His comments follow the official opening of nominations for presidential aspirants ahead of the party’s primaries scheduled for January 31, 2026, in line with Article 13 of the NPP constitution.
The nomination period, which opened on Monday, July 29, 2025, is set to close on Thursday, August 28, 2025.
According to a statement issued by the party’s General Secretary, Justin Frimpong Kodua, interested aspirants are required to pay a non-refundable application fee of GH₵100,000 to obtain nomination forms, in addition to a GH₵500,000 filing fee.
Critics have raised concerns that the high cost of participation may restrict the race to only wealthy candidates or those with strong financial backing, sidelining grassroots contenders.
However, speaking on Morning Starr with Naa Dedei Tettey on Wednesday, July 30, Mr. Ahiagbah dismissed such concerns, stating that the fees are necessary to support the operations of the party.
“These are all funds that go to the party for the purpose of running. I don’t know why anybody would want that amount to be refunded to them,” Ahiagbah said.
“The principle behind the fees is for aspirants to contribute meaningfully to the running of the party. In political parties, members fund operations — this is part of that process. If you’re running for office, you contribute by paying these amounts.”
He maintained that the system ensures that those aspiring to lead the party are also invested in its growth and sustainability.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh
