New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential hopeful Bryan Acheampong has defended the party’s controversial GH¢4.6 million development fee imposed on flagbearer aspirants, describing it as a legitimate test of a candidate’s ability to mobilize resources.
The NPP recently opened nominations for its presidential primaries, setting the cost at GH¢100,000 for nomination forms, GH¢500,000 for filing fees, and GH¢4.6 million as a development fee a figure that has sparked public backlash and accusations of elitism.
Speaking to journalists after his vetting on Tuesday, September 23, Acheampong maintained that anyone seeking to lead the party must demonstrate financial capability.
“If you are a presidential candidate, you have to be able to demonstrate resourcefulness to mobilize what is required to fulfill the party’s requirements,” he said.
While defending the rationale behind the fee, Dr. Acheampong stopped short of endorsing its fairness, saying the decision ultimately rests with party leadership.
“As to whether it is a fair amount, right amount, exorbitant or low, that is up to the party’s people and the leadership to decide. I’m not for or against, I’m very neutral about it,” he added.
“I think my team has fulfilled that requirement and we’re ready to embark on our campaign.”
The fee structure has drawn criticism from civil society groups and party members alike, with many arguing it could discourage capable candidates without deep financial backing from participating in the race.
