BY Daniel Bampoe
A major boost has emerged for the national chairmanship ambitions of Ashanti Regional New Patriotic Party (NPP) Chairman, Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, following a high-level meeting with former NPP National Chairman, Freddie Blay, who has openly pledged his support for Wontumi’s expected bid to lead the governing party nationally.
The meeting, held at Freddie Blay’s residence, is being viewed by party insiders as a significant political endorsement ahead of what is expected to become a fiercely contested internal race for the NPP’s national leadership.
Sources close to the discussions say the encounter focused on party strategy, grassroots mobilisation, regional political dynamics and the future direction of the NPP as it prepares for upcoming internal elections and the broader national political contest.
During the engagement, Freddie Blay reportedly praised the campaign structure assembled by Chairman Wontumi, describing it as a “solid team” capable of mounting a strong nationwide campaign.
The former National Chairman personally acknowledged members of Wontumi’s campaign entourage and commended their organisational efforts and commitment to the party.
Freddy Blay is said to have assured Wontumi of his unwavering backing, describing his endorsement as genuine and heartfelt.
According to persons present at the meeting, the former NPP National Chairman pledged to support Wontumi “every step of the way” in his quest to become the next national chairman of the party.
The meeting also carried emotional and symbolic significance due to Chairman Wontumi’s ongoing legal challenges. Freddie Blay reportedly offered prayers and words of encouragement to the Ashanti Regional Chairman, asking for “strength, endurance and perseverance” as he continues to battle multiple court cases involving allegations related to mining activities and financial impropriety.
Despite the legal pressures surrounding Wontumi, Freddie Blay is reported to have expressed confidence in his political future, declaring that “this is the time for Chairman Wontumi” and describing him as “the man of the moment.”
The discussions reportedly extended beyond endorsements to include detailed campaign strategy. Freddie Blay is said to have advised Wontumi’s team to intensify efforts in politically strategic regions such as Greater Accra and the Eastern Region, areas considered crucial in determining outcomes in national executive elections within the party.
Chairman Wontumi’s possible national chairmanship bid comes at a time when the NPP is undergoing internal reflection following recent political and electoral challenges. Within the party, there is growing debate over the future direction of leadership, grassroots mobilisation and party restructuring ahead of the next general election cycle.
Wontumi, known for his outspoken style, aggressive grassroots politics and strong influence in the Ashanti Region, has built a reputation as one of the party’s most visible regional chairmen.
Over the years, he has played a key role in mobilising support for the NPP in its traditional stronghold and has remained a dominant figure in internal party affairs.
