Alhaji Abubakar Saddique Boniface, former Member of Parliament and cabinet minister under the New Patriotic Party (NPP), and now Interim Chairman of the newly renamed United Party (UP), has declared that Ghana’s current challenges stem not from a national crisis but from a failure of leadership.
Speaking at the official unveiling of the United Party (UP) on Thursday October 16, in Accra, Alhaji Boniface emphasized the party’s readiness to reshape the nation’s political direction through inclusive, competent, and visionary leadership, centered around its flagbearer, Mr. Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen.
“Ghana is not facing a problem. What we have is a leadership crisis.
Leadership isn’t just about charisma; it’s about accountability. We must evaluate what leaders say in critical moments and question whether they truly represent the people’s needs,” he said.
Alhaji Boniface advocated for a more nuanced national conversation on leadership styles, specifically the need to distinguish between transformational and transactional leadership.
He stressed that effective leadership requires not just popularity but the ability to justify actions and uphold principles.
A Call to Unity and History
The UP interim chairman noted that the party’s mission is rooted in reviving the spirit of unity that once characterized Ghana’s political landscape, especially in the aftermath of the Avoidance of Discrimination Act in 1957.
“Many have forgotten the contributions of key figures who helped shape our democracy.
We stand on the shoulders of those who overcame division to build a unified front. That spirit must be reignited,” he said.
He recalled how parties from different regions and ideological backgrounds once came together in solidarity, transcending ethnic, tribal, and religious lines.
The new UP coalition, he said, draws inspiration from that history and seeks to build a political home that reflects the diversity and resilience of Ghana.
A Coalition of Competence and Integrity
According to Alhaji Boniface, UP is not simply a splinter group formed out of discontent but a well-thought-out coalition built on mutual respect and shared purpose.
The party includes members from across the political spectrum — former MPs and cabinet members from the NDC, NPP, CPP, and civil society — united by the desire for meaningful reform.
“We are not here to break down what others have built. We have reflected, discussed, and redefined our purpose.
This is about national progress, not personal ambition,” he explained.
He also introduced a strategic alliance for Revolutionary Change, a movement he said brings together progressive voices from across ideological lines.
While the name may be seen as provocative, the coalition’s goal, he explained, is to disrupt old patterns and promote bold, honest leadership.
The Future of Governance: Pragmatism and Inclusion
Alhaji Boniface stated that UP will embrace pragmatic politics — balancing free enterprise with social protection — and will focus on building a government that delivers results without partisanship.
“Our strength lies in collaboration. While we may differ in opinion, we must never forget we share one nation and one destiny.
Youth, women, and marginalized communities are at the center of our agenda. This is their movement to,” he added.
A Message to the People
He called on Ghanaians to rethink the current political status quo and embrace a new vision built on unity, transparency, and inclusion.
“This is not a cry of bitterness but a call to conscience.
We are offering an alternative rooted in service, not control.
We must remember where we started, so we can truly understand where we’re going,” he concluded.
About UP:
The United Party (UP) received its provisional certification in October 2025 and positions itself as a third-force alternative aiming to reshape Ghana’s political future.
Drawing from a deep well of political experience and historical legacy, the party presents itself as a movement of national revival.
By Sampson Kumah Ifeetwube Elvis
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