Only 6 Out Of 47 Aspirants Are Women - Election Watch Ghana Raises Alarm Over Low Female Participation In NPP Internal Party Elections

Election Watch Ghana has expressed disappointment over the low level of women's participation in ongoing internal party elections.

In a statement dated 17th September, 2026, the group revealed that out of a total number of 47 aspirants, only 6 women, representing approximately 13%, have expressed interest in contesting for internal party positions.

"While we acknowledge and appreciate the women who have taken the bold step to put themselves forward, the figures highlight the need for greater efforts to encourage and support more women to participate in the party's internal democratic processes," the statement said.

The organization is therefore encouraging the party to not only consider reducing filing fees and other financial barriers that may discourage women from contesting, but also to strengthen continuous engagement with women within the party.

According to Election Watch Ghana, regular consultations, leadership development initiatives, mentorship, information-sharing, and deliberate encouragement can help build women's confidence and interest in seeking internal party positions.

It stressed that women's participation should not be addressed only when internal elections are approaching, but requires sustained engagement throughout the electoral cycle so that women are informed, supported, prepared, and encouraged to see themselves as capable candidates for leadership at every level.

"We will continue to monitor subsequent internal elections and track the level of women's participation. We sincerely hope that future internal elections will record a significant increase in the number of women who step forward to contest and contribute to the leadership and decision-making processes of the party," it added.

The group noted that greater representation of women in internal party structures strengthens inclusive participation and contributes to a more representative democratic process.