By Grace Zigah
Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has issued a congratulatory statement to Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia as the party’s next flagbearer, despite the fact that official results of the ongoing presidential primary have not yet been formally declared.
The premature endorsement comes at a time when provisional tallies from across several constituencies suggest that Dr. Bawumia is in a commanding lead, with outspoken businessman and former MP, Kennedy Agyapong as well as first-time contender Bryan Acheampong reportedly sharing portions of the vote, splitting support among the remaining aspirants.
In a release issued from the NPP Ashanti Regional Secretariat in Kumasi, Chairman Wontumi described the internal election as a difficult but necessary process for the party, especially following what he termed the disappointing outcome of the 2024 general elections.
He noted that the primary has nonetheless demonstrated that the NPP remains a democratic and united political force capable of reorganising and preparing for the future.
“This has been a difficult period for our party… but this process has shown that the NPP remains a strong, democratic and united political family,” the statement said.
Chairman Wontumi stressed that the task ahead for the party is to rebuild trust with the Ghanaian electorate, reconnect with its grassroots base, and restore confidence nationwide.
According to him, that mission will require discipline, honesty, hard work and unity, rather than internal blame or division.
He called on party members across all regions to rally behind Dr. Bawumia, whom he referred to as the party’s flagbearer, and to contribute toward restructuring the party machinery ahead of the 2028 elections.
“I supported this process because I believe the NPP must always put the party first, not individuals or personal interests,” he added, urging members to close ranks and focus on returning to power.
Chairman Wontumi further pledged his commitment to strengthening the party’s grassroots organisation and mobilising supporters toward a successful comeback.
“We may have lost in 2024, but we have not lost our spirit, our values, or our belief in Ghana. The NPP will rise again—together,” the statement concluded.
The congratulatory message, though generating attention due to its timing, reflects growing confidence within sections of the party that Dr. Bawumia is emerging as the front-runner in the flagbearer race, even as the Electoral Committee of the NPP has yet to officially announce final certified results.
