Stephen Ntim to Bow Out as NPP Chairman Amid Health Concerns and Party Shake-Up
mrwoode.com can confirm that Stephen Ayesu Ntim the National Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has privately disclosed to senior party executives and close associates that he will not seek re-election at the end of his current term. This revelation signals a likely leadership overhaul within the party as it braces for future political battles.
According to credible sources close to the NPP leadership, Ntim’s decision not to contest again is largely influenced by his declining health particularly his reported battle with progressive dementia a degenerative neurological condition that impairs memory, judgment and executive function.
Though he is expected to complete his current term which ends in 2026 his withdrawal from high-profile events including Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s recent nationwide Thank You Tour, had already raised speculation about his capacity to continue in the demanding role.
Medical experts have explained the debilitating effects of dementia especially on individuals in leadership. It disrupts executive function including planning problem-solving, and maintaining attention to detail,” noted a geriatric specialist at the University of Ghana Medical School. These are essential traits for coordinating political campaigns, resolving internal disputes, and upholding party discipline.
Ntim’s health challenges come at a time of increased scrutiny on the party’s performance. Although his rise to the chairmanship in 2022 after five unsuccessful attempts was seen as a triumph of persistence, his tenure has been overshadowed by the NPP’s poor showing in the 2023 general elections, which saw major parliamentary losses and a dent in public confidence.
Critics have attributed the electoral downturn to perceived leadership lapses, while others point to broader factors such as economic hardship and public discontent with the government.
Mr. Ntim is not alone in his decision to step back. Several senior NPP executives are also reportedly preparing to exit, suggesting a coordinated generational transition. This development has triggered mixed reactions within party ranks some see it as an opportunity for fresh leadership, while others fear a vacuum of institutional knowledge.
However, not all are stepping away. General Secretary Justin Frimpong Kodua, considered a rising star in the party, is expected to seek re-election and is being tipped to lead the NPP’s revival drive as it prepares for the next general elections in 2028.
Though the NPP has not released an official statement confirming Ntim’s plans, signs of transition are already evident. 1st Vice Chairman Danquah Smith Buttey has taken on more active responsibilities in recent months, working closely with the General Secretary.
A senior party figure who spoke anonymously described Ntim’s anticipated exit as both “dignified and strategic, offering the party a chance to manage the transition smoothly while recognizing his long-standing commitment to the NPP.
Yet, others argue that the party must go beyond leadership changes and address deeper issues such as internal factionalism, unclear policy direction, and weak grassroots engagement.
Despite the challenges, Stephen Ntim’s political journey has been marked by resilience. From a perennial aspirant to the helm of Ghana’s ruling party, his leadership tenure—though turbulent—has left a mark.
Even political opponents have acknowledged the human side of his departure. “We must balance accountability with compassion. His health challenges remind us that leaders are not immune to vulnerability,” a senior National Democratic Congress (NDC) member said in reaction to the news.
As the NPP moves toward internal restructuring and national rebranding, all eyes are on how it navigates this critical phase. For Chairman Ntim, stepping aside may not just be a personal health decision—it could become a defining moment in shaping the future of the party he fought so long to lead.