By: Daniel Bampoe
Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, former Vice President and the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) 2024 presidential candidate, emerged as the undisputed star of the party’s 2025 National Delegates Conference held at the University of Ghana Sports Stadium, Legon.
What began as a routine party event to deliberate on reforms and strategy turned into a political showcase of Bawumia’s continued popularity and influence within the NPP.
Thousands of party faithful, delegates, and grassroots supporters from across the country erupted into thunderous applause, chants, and cheers when Bawumia arrived at the conference grounds.
The reception momentarily brought proceedings to a halt, as party members flooded the aisles to catch a glimpse of their former presidential candidate.
Clad in the party’s signature red, white, and blue colours, Bawumia entered the stadium accompanied by his wife Samira Bawumia, a retinue of regional executives and party bigwigs.
Party youth groups waved flags and sang party anthems, some hoisting placards that read “Bawumia Still Our Hope” and “2028 Starts Now.”
The atmosphere was electric — reminiscent of a campaign rally rather than an internal party conference.
Bawumia’s Commanding Presence Signals Political Clout
Though the event was officially about party restructuring and preparing for the future, it was clear that Bawumia remained the focal point.
His presence overshadowed other scheduled speakers, and many observers say it was a deliberate demonstration of the former Vice President’s enduring influence within the party.
Party insiders revealed that regional delegations coordinated their show of support for Bawumia as a way of affirming their continued loyalty after the NPP’s disappointing loss in the 2024 general elections.
For many, his reception was not only an expression of admiration but a clear statement that Bawumia remains a key player in shaping the party’s future trajectory — possibly with an eye on 2028.
A Call for Unity Amid Factional Tensions
Despite the celebratory mood, Bawumia’s speech struck a serious and urgent tone.
He warned of the dangers of internal disunity and urged the party’s rank and file to stop attacking one another.
Reflecting on the bitter factionalism that plagued the 2024 campaign, he cautioned that similar behaviour could again cost the party dearly in future elections.
“Too often, when we are yet to choose leaders, indiscipline, unacceptable language, and unpardonable behavior become the order of the day,” Bawumia said.
“We experienced it in the 2024 campaign, and we should not let it happen again. That is why I call on all kukrudites to stop the internal attacks now.”
He emphasized that internal battles only serve as ammunition for political opponents, particularly the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC), which he accused of undermining the rule of law and democratic institutions.
Turning the Heat on the NDC
In a shift from internal affairs to national politics, Bawumia took aim at the Mahama administration’s handling of recent controversies, including the suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo and alleged plans to target the Electoral Commission.
“Let us focus on the attempt by the NDC to undermine our democracy and the rule of law,” he charged.
“Let us also focus on the violence and thuggery their hoodlums carried out during the Ablekuma North by-election in full view of police and cameras.”
Dr Bawumia’s criticism of the government resonated with delegates who remain fiercely opposed to the NDC’s return to power.
He vowed that under a future NPP government, the perpetrators of political violence would be brought to justice.
“No matter how long it takes, we will prosecute the perpetrators when we assume office in 2029, Insha Allah,” he declared to loud applause.
Setting the Stage for 2028
Though Bawumia has not officially declared intentions for another presidential run, the scale of support and his speech’s tone left little doubt that he remains a central figure in the party’s post-defeat rebuilding process. With the NPP entering a new phase of introspection and reform, Bawumia’s influence appears unshaken — if not even stronger.
Some analysts believe the overwhelming welcome he received could complicate the ambitions of other emerging figures within the NPP, hoping to lead the party into the 2028 elections
Others argue that his message of unity and focus should form the backbone of the party’s revival, regardless of who leads.
The NPP National Delegates Conference comes at a time of reckoning for the party.
After losing the 2024 elections following eight years in power, the party is seeking to reorganize and reconnect with its base.
Party elders, MPs, regional coordinators, and delegates all gathered to chart a path forward — one that acknowledges past failures but looks to future redemption.
