After the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) disappointing showing in the 2024 elections, many party faithful in the Upper East Region are searching for a fresh start—one grounded in unity, reconciliation, and strategic rebuilding.
Patrick Ayaba, the long-serving NPP Constituency Chairman for Zebilla, believes he can lead that renewal. Speaking on A1 Radio, Ayaba disclosed his intention to contest the NPP Upper East Regional Chairmanship, stressing that the party must heal from internal divisions to mount a stronger comeback in 2028.
“We have realised our mistakes, and we are correcting them,” he said. “What has passed has passed. We need to open a new chapter so that we can battle for 2028. Everybody is beginning to understand that unity is the only way forward.”
A Political Journey Rooted in Service
Ayaba’s political career spans more than two decades. He began in 2000 as the Polling Station Secretary for Teshie Primary School and in 2002 won the Assemblyman seat for the Teshie Electoral Area.
His early leadership came with challenges. After his uncle, Hon. Cletus Avoka, lost the 2004 parliamentary election, Ayaba was blamed by some for his Assemblyman victory. In the next cycle, he lost the seat by just 12 votes. Despite this setback, the party recognized his dedication, appointing him to a government position.
In 2009, Ayaba won the NPP Regional Treasurer position while the party was in opposition. He recalls that financing party activities “was not easy at all,” yet he continued investing personal resources to keep the party machinery running.
Building Businesses, Empowering Youth
Ayaba ties his political work closely to economic empowerment. He once relocated to the Savannah Region to engage in small-scale mining at Tinga. The business flourished, allowing him to finance NPP activities ahead of the 2016 elections.
“What makes me unique is my willingness to share opportunities with young people,” he said. “I don’t chop alone. I don’t work alone. When you invite people to join you in business, you’re helping them also build a future.”
Dozens of young men who worked with him in Tinga have since built houses, started businesses, or improved their livelihoods, crediting their breakthroughs to his mentorship.
Investing Back Into His Community
Ayaba has also invested in hospitality and health services, creating jobs and supporting social development. He owns the Confidential Hotel in Zebilla, employing nearly 20 people, and established Patiawa Outreach Clinic, which employs a medical doctor and serves residents in his former mining area.
During his tenure as Assemblyman, he facilitated multiple borehole projects, reconstructed Teshie Primary School, and supported numerous children financially and academically.
“Whether you are NDC or NPP, I support you,” he said. “We are here to develop the district, not divide it.”
His inclusive approach has earned him goodwill across political divides, with even opponents acknowledging his commitment to community development.
Why He Wants to Lead the Region
Ayaba believes the NPP lost the 2024 elections in the Upper East due to internal disunity and weak leadership.
“There were too many blame games,” he said. “Constituency executives were divided, parliamentary candidates and chairmen were not working together. Leadership was dormant, and it cost us dearly.”
His vision is to build a cohesive party front.
“I will move from constituency to constituency, even sleep there if I have to. You cannot solve problems when you are not with the people,” he said.
He stressed the importance of inclusivity after primaries. “When people feel neglected, they withdraw. That weakened us. We must correct it.”
Looking Ahead
Patrick Ayaba’s story is one of determination, service, and sacrifice. As he seeks the NPP Upper East Regional Chairmanship, he brings a record of community transformation, party financing, youth empowerment, and bridge-building.
He believes the Upper East can become a stronghold for the NPP if the party embraces unity, strategy, and inclusive leadership.
“I am coming to correct things,” he declared. “With unity and hard work, 2028 is possible.”
Source: A1 Radio | 101.1 Mhz | Moses Apiah | Bolgatanga
