Former NPP MP Gifty Klenam Switches Allegiance to NDC in Major Political Shift

Gifty Klenam, a former two-term Member of Parliament (MP) for Lower West Akim under the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has officially joined the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), marking a significant shift in Ghana’s political landscape. Klenam made the announcement on Thursday morning, January 30, 2025, after acquiring her membership card from the NDC in the Anlo Constituency, located in the Volta Region.

In her statement to the media, Klenam explained the reasons behind her decision to switch political allegiance, highlighting that the NDC’s values and vision resonated more with her personal beliefs. She encouraged others within the NPP who may be feeling disillusioned with the party to take bold steps and consider making a similar move. “After consulting with my family, I have decided to join the NDC because it aligns with my values and vision for the development of Ghana,” she shared.

Klenam also expressed her strong support for the NDC’s 2024 manifesto, which she believes offers the most practical and beneficial blueprint for Ghana’s progress. She emphasized her confidence in the leadership of former President John Dramani Mahama, asserting that his leadership will bring the much-needed transformation to the country and provide lasting prosperity for the people of Ghana. Her endorsement of the NDC’s policies underscores her belief that the party is in the best position to address the challenges facing the nation.

Although Klenam’s exact role within the NDC is still to be clarified, she has expressed a willingness to serve in any capacity that would contribute to the party’s objectives. For now, her main focus is to engage with the grassroots of the NDC, build connections within local communities, and work towards ensuring that Ghanaians have access to opportunities within the country, thus reducing the need for citizens to seek employment abroad. Her commitment to strengthening the party’s foundation and empowering its supporters is a clear priority for her as she embarks on this new political journey.

Klenam’s defection has sparked considerable discussions within the political arena, as she was once a prominent and influential member of the NPP. During her time in Parliament, she served two terms, contributing to the Fourth and Fifth Parliaments of the Fourth Republic. Additionally, she held the position of Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Ghana Export Promotion Centre (GEPC) in 2017 under the administration of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.

Her departure from the NPP, a party she had been closely affiliated with for many years, is seen as a noteworthy development in Ghana’s political scene. It raises questions about the dynamics within the NPP and the factors that led to her defection. Many observers speculate that her move to the NDC could influence other NPP members who may feel disillusioned or marginalized within their own party to reconsider their political loyalties ahead of the 2024 elections.

For the NDC, Klenam’s arrival could bring a significant boost to the party’s efforts to engage with key constituencies in the upcoming elections. Her reputation, experience, and previous leadership roles within the country give her a considerable political profile that could contribute to the NDC’s success in future campaigns. As the political season heats up, Klenam’s defection will likely have lasting implications for both the NPP and the NDC, especially as they prepare for what promises to be a highly contested election in 2024.

Klenam’s decision to join the NDC also comes at a time of increased political realignment, with many politicians reassessing their positions and seeking opportunities to be part of what they believe to be the most viable force for national change.