As the New Patriotic Party (NPP) heads toward its January 31, 2026 presidential primaries, the political landscape within the main opposition party is
As the New Patriotic Party (NPP) heads toward its January 31, 2026 presidential primaries, the political landscape within the main opposition party is shifting dramatically in favour of former Vice President and 2024 presidential candidate, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.
A groundswell of endorsements—cutting across electoral area coordinators, constituency executives, former MPs, campaign strategists, youth organizers, and even defectors from rival camps—have solidified his status as the dominant frontrunner in what is expected to be one of the party’s most consequential internal contests.
This wave of support is the latest chapter in a political journey that began in 2008, when Dr. Bawumia emerged as a relatively unknown technocrat supporting the then-candidate Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.
Over the years, his digitalization campaign, technocratic appeal and national visibility have earned him both admirers and critics. His 2024 presidential bid, although unsuccessful against President John Dramani Mahama, positioned him firmly as the most recognized NPP figure going into the next election cycle.
Now, party operatives say his experience, visibility and message of modernization place him far ahead of any potential contender.
Rising Tide of Support from Grassroots Structures
Across the country, electoral area coordinators—considered the backbone of the NPP’s ground operations—have declared overwhelming support for Dr. Bawumia.
The declarations, recorded in various constituencies, reflect a consistent pattern of backing ranging from 80% to over 94%.
A few examples of the major blocs include:
Prestea Huni Valley: 28 of 32 coordinators (87.5%)
New Juaben South: 30 of 34 coordinators (88.2%)
Akuapem North: 29 of 31 coordinators (93.5%)
Mfantseman: 34 of 36 coordinators (94.4%)
Assin South: Coordinators unanimously aligned, though exact figures were not disclosed
Several coordinators noted that polling station executives are equally united behind the former Vice President, insisting that he is the only aspirant capable of energizing the grassroots and appealing broadly to floating voters in the 2028 elections.
The surge of endorsements has not been limited to grassroots actors. Former constituency executives in various regions have thrown their weight behind Dr. Bawumia.
In the Mfantseman Constituency, 37 of 47 former executives endorsed him after what they described as “a sober reflection” on the party’s electoral fortunes.
Similarly, 30 out of 47 youth organizers in the Central Region declared support, pledging to mobilize a vigorous youth-driven campaign.
Constituency executives in different regions have also strengthened the pro-Bawumia momentum.
In Mpohor, Chairman Razak Dadzie vowed to secure at least 80% of local votes for him, warning delegates that ignoring the party’s most marketable candidate could be politically costly.
At Nkwanta South, First Vice Chairperson Pius Amewu predicted a 90% victory margin for Dr. Bawumia, describing him as “the only candidate capable of returning the NPP to power.”
In Agona East, 2024 parliamentary candidate Hannah Asamoah urged delegates to maintain consistency, remarking: “We don’t build a strong market by constantly changing products.”
Similar endorsements have been recorded in Akan, Asikuma Odoben Brakwa, and other constituencies where executives commended Dr. Bawumia’s leadership qualities and political maturity.
Defections and High-Profile Backers Boost His Standing
Adding to the momentum are significant defections from prominent figures previously aligned with rival aspirants.
In Asunafo South, Deputy Constituency Secretary Eric Agyemang—once a fierce advocate for Kennedy Agyapong—publicly renounced his earlier criticisms, admitting they were based on “lies and falsehood,” and pledged support for Dr. Bawumia.
Former Kade MP and campaign manager for Kwabena Agyapong, Ofosu Asamoah, also switched allegiance, explaining that recent political dynamics within the NPP indicated that the former Vice President offered the clearest path to party unity and national competitiveness.
Other notable endorsements have come from: Michael Okyere Baafi, MP for New Juaben South, former Akwatia MP, Mercy Adu-Gyamfi (Ama Sey) and several retired constituency executives and long-serving strategists across the Eastern, Central, Western and Ashanti regions.
Across regions, party faithful consistently point to four key arguments driving the swelling support:
1. Winnability: Many believe Dr. Bawumia remains the NPP’s strongest contender for the 2028 general elections due to his national visibility and recognition.
2. Marketability: Supporters argue that having been marketed since 2008, the party cannot afford to “start afresh” with a new face.
3. Vision & Innovation: His digitalization agenda, economic modernization proposals, and forward-looking ideas resonate strongly with both the party’s base and urban voters.
4. Welfare and Unity: Many cite his commitment to strengthening party structures and improving the welfare of grassroots actors as critical to rebuilding trust after the 2024 defeat.
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