Butey chairs NPP meetings as Chairman Ntim steps sside on medical grounds

The First Vice Chairperson of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Danquah Smith Butey, has assumed the chair of the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) and National Council meetings, following the temporary withdrawal of National Chairman Stephen Ayesu Ntim due to health concerns.

The crucial NEC meetings, holding on Tuesday, June 17 at the Alisa Hotel in Accra, was expected to tackle major agenda items, including progress on the Constitutional Review Committee and preparations for the NPP’s upcoming national conference in July.

However, the unexpected shift in leadership became a central talking point, with Butey stepping in to lead proceedings in the absence of the party’s topmost official.

Family Intervenes

Chairman Ntim’s absence follows a formal request submitted by his family through the NPP Council of Elders, urging the party to excuse him from official responsibilities.

The letter, signed by several family members including MP Adelaide Ntim, cited medical advice and a collective decision to safeguard the Chairman’s wellbeing.

The family noted that Ntim has not been in optimal health in recent weeks and that participation in high-pressure political engagements could significantly hinder his recovery.

They described the decision to schedule him to chair the NEC meeting despite his condition as “inconsiderate,” calling instead for time away from both public and intra-party activities.

“Common sense dictates that Steve be temporarily excused… in order to make way for needed peace and solace,” the letter read, warning that compelling his involvement in party affairs could exacerbate his condition and breach his rights.

Smooth Leadership Transition

With the family’s appeal gaining traction among party elders, Vice Chair Butey was tapped to lead the meetings in a move seen as both pragmatic and respectful of the Chairman’s health.

Butey, who has served the party in various capacities and is widely viewed as a steady hand, chaired the NEC meeting without incident. He is expected to chair National Council meeting later in the day.

Though the NPP has not issued a formal statement acknowledging Ntim’s temporary withdrawal or naming an interim replacement, party insiders say the NEC meeting proceeded with full recognition of the unusual circumstances.

The leadership vacuum, though not officially declared, is being quietly filled as discussions continue about the long-term implications of Ntim’s condition.

An Uncertain Horizon

Stephen Ntim, who was elected Chairman in July 2022 after multiple unsuccessful bids, has been a respected figure within the party. His leadership has been credited with fostering internal stability and supporting the party’s broader strategic goals ahead of the 2028 elections.

His temporary exit from active duties adds a layer of uncertainty at a critical time for the NPP.

The party is gearing up for its national delegates conference, where key decisions about restructuring and electoral strategy are expected to be made. With the Chairman’s health in the balance, questions are beginning to surface about the possibility of a longer-term leadership arrangement.

Support for Recovery

The Ntim family has made it clear that their call for him to step back is based solely on health grounds and not political calculation.

They have encouraged the party leadership to prioritize his recovery and afford him the time and space necessary for full recuperation.

They also indicated that his return to party work will be considered in the future, based on medical evaluations and internal consultations.