Seedy Sheriff Ceesay, Administrative Secretary, National People’s Party (NPP), has said the traditional structures of political organizations in Africa are being challenged. People especially the youth are demanding more from politics – more transparency, more participation, more accountability and, above all, more impact.
The NPP Administrative Secretary was speaking in Ghana during the African Political Parties Summit 2025, held at Accra International Conference Centre, Ghana.
“Our citizens are no longer satisfied with business as usual. They want leaders who listen, who adapt and who deliver. And so, if our political parties are to remain relevant in the years ahead, we must change not only how we operate, but why we exist,” he stated.
He alluded that the world is changing fast – whether it’s climate shocks, global pandemics, or economic shifts. “Our parties must be able to respond quickly, learn continuously, and adjust when circumstances demand it,” he noted.
However, he said, digital tools are transforming how people engage with politics. “Social media, data platforms, and artificial intelligence can help us reach more people and involve them in decision-making. But we must use them wisely and ethically,” he advise, saying Africa is a young continent.
“Our political spaces must reflect that reality not just with youth wings, but with real opportunities for young people to lead and shape policy. We need their energy, ideas, and drive,” he said. “People are tired of empty promises and politics driven by personal ambition.”
He emphasizes that African political parties must stand for something real – honesty, justice, service and the public good. “They must live the values we preach.”
Mr Ceesay hit the fact that no one party or country can solve the national challenges alone. “We need a spirit of partnership across political lines and across borders to tackle the big issues: peace, migration, climate, trade, and development,” he said.
He further said that at the NPP, under the leadership of President Barrow, they are working to modernize the party structures, improve inclusion, and ensure that their programs respond directly to the needs of the people.
“We’re strengthening our youth and women’s engagement, opening up new channels for public input, and building a political culture focused on unity, service and national development,” he stated, saying it is not an easy journey, but it is necessary. “And we know we’re not alone. All across Africa, parties are being called to rise to a new standard and I believe we can.”
He indicated that the Summit is not just about reimagining political parties in theory. “It’s about making real changes in how we lead, how we listen, and how we serve.”
The NPP admin secretary calls for more commitment to building political parties that are not just tools for winning elections, but platforms for building a better Africa together.
