Members and executives of the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Ejisu Constituency of the Ashanti Region have protested against a proposed open voting system for upcoming polling station election, warning that the move could deepen divisions within the party ahead of the 2028 general elections.

The protesters are demanding that the elections be conducted through secret balloting rather than by open headcount voting, arguing that secret ballots are more democratic and help prevent intimidation and tension among party members.

According to the aggrieved members, regional party representatives had earlier directed that the elections should be based on the Electoral Commission voters’ register and conducted through secret balloting to ensure transparency and peaceful participation.

The protesters, however, alleged that the Member of Parliament for Ejisu and his supporters opposed the directive and were pushing for the use of the party’s membership register instead.

They argued that turnout during the recent membership registration exercise was low in several polling stations across the constituency and warned that relying solely on the party register could disenfranchise loyal supporters.

“Such a move could create resentment, frustration and apathy among party members,” one protester said during the demonstration.

The dispute has contributed to delays in organising the constituency’s polling station elections, according to the protesters, who accused the MP’s camp of actions that have heightened internal tensions.

Dominic Danquah called on regional executives to intervene, saying the growing disagreements threatened party unity at a critical time for grassroots mobilisation.

“Currently, there is division in the constituency, and we cannot afford internal misunderstandings at a time the party needs strong grassroots mobilization and reorganization ahead of the 2028 general elections,” he said.

Constituency Chairman Kofi Ampofo said the protesters were not seeking to undermine the Member of Parliament but wanted unity and fairness in the electoral process.

“We have no intention of unseating our member of parliament, but we need unity and peace,” he said.

The internal disagreement highlights broader tensions within the NPP as the party begins preparations to reorganise its grassroots structures following its defeat in Ghana’s 2024 presidential election.