Stories and facts
The Convention People's Party can trace its roots back to a series of political movements formed in the first half of the 20th century, with the primary objective of leading the anti-colonial struggle in the Gold Coast (now Ghana).
The immediate precursor to the CPP was the United Gold Coast Convention (UGCC), founded in August 1947. The UGCC, primarily composed of professionals and business leaders, aimed to expand its support base and intensify the fight for independence. To this end, they appointed Kwame Nkrumah, a young political activist then in London, as their general secretary. Nkrumah, known for his leadership and organizational skills, had a significant track record in political activism, including the organization of the Fifth Pan-African Congress in 1945.
Nkrumah's tenure as the general secretary marked the beginning of a new era in the Gold Coast's political history. He mobilized the youth and established UGCC branches throughout the Gold Coast, expanding the party's reach and influence.
Birth of the CPP
After a crucial meeting in Tarkwa in June 1949, a division emerged within the UGCC. One faction advocated for a clean break from the UGCC, while another sought Nkrumah's reinstatement as the general secretary within the UGCC. Eventually, a compromise was reached: a new political party would be formed but would retain the name "Convention." On June 11, 1949, the CPP was officially born, and Kwame Nkrumah resigned as the general secretary of the UGCC. This event marked a turning point in Ghana's history, as it set the stage for the country's eventual independence on March 6, 1957.
Logo and Colors
The Convention People's Party adopted a distinctive emblem and colours to represent its identity. The party's emblem features a red cockerel heralding the dawn. The choice of colours included red, white, and green, with the tricolour flag arranged horizontally, displaying red at the top, white in the centre, and green at the bottom.
Constitution
The Convention People's Party (CPP) in Ghana is structured with a hierarchy of principal organs, each serving a distinct role within the party. This organizational structure includes Polling Station Branches, Electoral Area Branches, Constituency Branches, Regional Branches, and National Organs like the Council of Elders, Central Committee, National Executive Council, and National Delegates Congress. This framework ensures that the CPP operates effectively and harmoniously at all levels of governance.
Membership in the CPP is open to Ghanaian citizens who are at least eighteen years old and who align with the party's aims and objectives. Members have rights such as voting and being elected within the party's organs, the ability to address questions to party officials, and the opportunity to appeal adverse decisions. Simultaneously, they carry the responsibility of upholding party unity, protecting its reputation, and adhering to party decisions and directives. Additionally, members are encouraged to engage in constructive criticism, demonstrate loyalty, and participate actively in elections and referenda. The CPP's membership guidelines emphasize both rights and obligations, fostering a sense of unity and dedication among its members.
The CPP structured itself as a mass-based party, with branches established in towns and villages across the nation. Each branch had an elected Branch Executive Committee, and the party had a National Secretariat under the direct supervision and control of the Central Committee. The inaugural Central Committee was composed of prominent leaders, including Kwame Nkrumah as Chairman and Kojo Botsio as Secretary.
Party Executives
The CPP's leadership has evolved over the years, with national delegates conventions held every four years to elect new executives. As of the most recent election in August 2020, the national executives of the CPP include:
Chair: Nana Akosua Frimpomaa Sarpong–Kumankumah
Vice Chairs: Onsy Kwame Nkrumah (First), Emmanuel Ogborjor (Second), J.B. Daniels (Third)
General Secretary: Nana Yaa Akyimpim Jantuah
Treasurer: Emmanuel Opare Oduro
National Organizer: Moses Ambing Yirimbo
National Organizer for Women: Hajia Aisha Sulley
National Organizer for Youth: Osei Kofi Aquah
Election History
The CPP has a significant historical presence in Ghana's elections, both in presidential and parliamentary contests. Here is an overview of its performance in presidential elections:
1960: Kwame Nkrumah won with 89.07% of the votes.
1964 (Referendum): The CPP secured 99.91% of the votes.
2000: George Hagan received 1.78% of the votes.
2004: George Aggudey obtained 1.00% of the votes.
2008: Paa Kwesi Nduom secured 1.34% of the votes.
2012: Michael Abu Sakara Foster received 0.18% of the votes.
2016: Ivor Greenstreet secured 0.24% of the votes.
2020: Emmanuel Bobobe received 0.09% of the votes.
In parliamentary elections, the CPP has had a presence over the years, with varying degrees of success. Notably, the party played a significant role in Ghana's early parliamentary history, gaining a supermajority in the early 1950s.
The Convention People's Party (CPP) stands as a significant force in Ghana's political landscape, with a heritage deeply rooted in the nation's fight for independence. Through its emblem, colours, and constitution, the CPP has established a unique identity. Its evolution, along with the changing face of its leadership, is closely tied to Ghana's election history, making it a key player in the country's political tapestry.
