The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has congratulated the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) following what they describe as a “successful” primaries of their opponents.

But the opposition party did not stop short in pointing out that the 95.1 per cent endorsement of President John Dramani Mahama, though seen as overwhelming within his party, is an indication that his performance is on the decline.

These were contained in a statement issued on Thursday, November 26.

Signed by Nana Akomea, NPP’s Director of Communication, the statement indicated that given that Mr Mahama had no contest in the presidential primary, the result could have been better.

“His 95.1% endorsement compares not too favourably with Nana Akufo Addo's 94.3%, considering that Nana Addo did not enjoy any advantages of an incumbent presidency and faced contests from three other party stalwarts.

“In 2011, President John Evans Atta mills, against fierce competition from Mrs Konadu Agyeman Rawlings, secured 96.7% of valid votes cast. President Mahama in 2012, unopposed, secured 99.5% of valid votes cast. In 2015, still unopposed, President Mahama secures 95.1% of valid votes cast, a worse result than President Mills, and a loss of more than 4% of his (president Mahama's) own endorsement in 2012.”

The NPP also expressed shock at the defeat of some “loud contestants” including Dr Michael Kpessa Whyte, Abraham Amaliba and Peter Otokunor.

“This shows that loud soundings on radio do not necessarily indicate popularity.”

The opposition party was mainly concerned about the negative occurrences during the weekend’s primaries, saying they are cause for concern ahead of the 2016 elections.

“These negatives include reported violence, including aspirants suffering assault, reported kidnappings of rival supporters, free for all fights, destruction of ballot boxes, snatching of ballot boxes, ransacking and locking up of electoral commission offices.”