Former National Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Awentami Paul Afoko, has urged the party to restore confidence among businesses and renew its commitment to promoting entrepreneurship, innovation and economic empowerment.

Mr Afoko made the call in Accra while declaring his intention to contest the party’s National Chairman position. He acknowledged that some members of the business community became dissatisfied with certain decisions and policies introduced during the NPP’s time in government.

He said these concerns contributed to uncertainty and weakened trust in the party, stressing that the NPP must be willing to reflect on its shortcomings and take steps to address them.

“The NPP must regain your trust. We know that mistakes were made. We know that some of you felt disappointed. We know that some policies and actions created hardship, uncertainty, or frustration. As a party, we must have the humility to listen, to learn, and to correct what went wrong,” he stated.

Mr Afoko said the NPP has historically been recognised for championing private sector development, wealth creation and policies that empower individuals to improve their livelihoods.

He called for renewed engagement with various sectors of the economy, including traders, manufacturers, farmers, transport operators, artisans, professionals, contractors, technology entrepreneurs and emerging businesses, to shape a new prosperity-focused agenda.

According to him, the party must strengthen collaboration between the government and private sector because such a partnership is critical to generating employment, driving economic growth and improving living standards.

Mr Afoko stressed that restoring business confidence requires practical measures and policies that promote investment, encourage innovation and create a favourable environment for entrepreneurs to succeed.

He maintained that the NPP’s return to political prominence will depend on its ability to convince Ghanaians, particularly business owners and investors, that it remains committed to building an economy based on opportunity, enterprise and sustainable growth.