Majority reshuffle: ‘Palace coup gone wrong’ –Dr. Asante-Otchere

Dr. Jonathan Asante Otchere, a Political Analyst and Lecturer at the University of Cape Coast, has expressed concerns about the internal dynamics of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP). He believes that the recent failed Majority Caucus reshuffle is indicative of underlying issues within the party. Dr. Asante Otchere suggested that the events in Parliament on Monday, February 19, 2024, resembled a thwarted palace coup and warned that the party’s unity is at risk.

He alleged that the unsuccessful palace coup was orchestrated by the current party leader, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. According to the political science lecturer, the aim of the failed coup was to position supporters of Vice President Bawumia after the announcement of the members of the National Campaign Committee for the 2024 general election.

Dr. Otchere also pointed to the appointment of Madam Lydia Seyram Alhassan as Minister of Sanitation and Water Resources as a move to disrupt the leadership in anticipation of the intended reshuffle. He emphasized that this is just the beginning of internal challenges within the party.

These claims were made during an interview on Accra 100.5 FM’s evening news on Monday, February 19, 2024.

In response to these speculations, the Majority Caucus in Parliament has refuted any potential changes to its leadership, asserting its commitment to maintaining stability and unity within its ranks. First Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Joseph Osei Owusu, categorically denied any alterations to the leadership and stated that the status quo will remain.

Osei Owusu emphasized the Caucus’s exclusive authority to make decisions regarding its leadership and stressed the importance of preserving cohesion within the caucus to effectively address legislative matters and advance the government’s agenda.

Media reports have suggested potential changes in the Majority leadership, including the succession of Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, the current Majority Leader and Minister for Parliamentary Affairs, by Alexander Afenyo-Markin, the Deputy Majority Leader. The President is expected to meet with the Caucus at the Jubilee House to discuss the aborted reshuffle.