The National Executive Committee (NEC) of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has approved the inclusion of the Tertiary Students Confederacy (TESCON) in the party’s upcoming presidential primaries; a move party insiders say is aimed at broadening participation and energising the party’s grassroots base.
The decision, taken at a recent NEC meeting, grants TESCON members a formal role in the delegate structure for the flagbearer election, which is scheduled to take place on Saturday, January 31. TESCON, the recognised student wing of the NPP, operates across public and private tertiary institutions nationwide.
Party officials say the move reflects the growing influence of young people in the party’s organisation and electoral fortunes. By including TESCON, the NEC believes the primaries will better reflect the views of the party’s youthful support base, which has played a key role in campaigning, digital mobilisation, and voter outreach in recent elections.
Supporters of the decision argue that TESCON members have long contributed to the party’s activities but have often felt excluded from major internal decision-making processes. Their inclusion, they say, will boost morale and strengthen party unity ahead of the 2026 general elections.
As the NPP prepares for a keenly contested presidential primary, the inclusion of TESCON is expected to add a new dynamic to the race, with aspirants likely to intensify engagement with students and youth leaders across tertiary campuses.
The party leadership has assured members that detailed guidelines on TESCON’s participation will be communicated ahead of the primaries to ensure a smooth and transparent process.
