The Acting National Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Danquah Smith Butey, has dismissed reports of a rift between former Bantama Member of Parliament (MP) Dr. Henry Kokofu, and the newly elected regional chairman, Odeneho Kwaku Appiah, also known as COKA.

According to Mr Butey, claims of bad blood between the two NPP figures are mere speculation, insisting that there is no tension between them.

Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, he said COKA has been an active member of the party for a long time and deserved the opportunity to lead the region after his previous unsuccessful attempt to secure the chairmanship.

“There is no bad blood or rift between Kokofu and COKA. The claims are mere speculations. COKA has been around for a long time, and he needed to win because the last time he contested with Wontumi, Wontumi didn’t have it easy,” he stated.

Mr Butey said he has confidence in COKA’s ability to deliver in his new role, adding that his leadership capacity should not be in doubt.

“I believe he can do the work and that is not in contention.”

He pointed to COKA’s previous role as chairman of regional chairmen during the NPP’s time in government as evidence of his experience and ability to mobilise the party.

“He was the chairman of chairmen when we won 16 seats, so I have faith in him that he will do the work even though he doesn’t talk much.”

Mr Butey’s comments come after COKA was elected Ashanti Regional Chairman in the NPP’s regional executive elections held on Saturday, August 15.

He secured 663 votes to beat his sole contender, Dr Kokofu, who obtained 269 votes.

He succeeds Chairman Wontumi, who had served as Ashanti Regional Chairman since 2014 and did not seek re-election.

Mr Butey expressed confidence that the new leadership would work to strengthen the NPP’s structures in the Ashanti Region and improve the party’s fortunes ahead of the 2028 general elections.