The recent public endorsement of Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia by a group of over 200 former Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) has sparked controversy within the New Patriotic Party (NPP). Dickson Adomako Kissi, a former Member of Parliament, has criticized the move, labeling it politically reckless and potentially damaging to the party’s unity and the MMDCEs’ own standing. He argues that such open declarations of support are premature and could jeopardize ongoing discussions to include MMDCEs in the party’s electoral college.
Adomako Kissi’s primary concern is the timing of the endorsement. He points out that the NPP’s National Executive Committee (NEC) is currently considering a proposal to incorporate MMDCEs into the party’s voter register for future elections. By publicly aligning themselves with a specific candidate, the former MMDCEs risk undermining their case for inclusion. Their action could be perceived as a sign of bias, potentially influencing the outcome of the NEC’s decision. He suggests that a more strategic approach would have been to remain neutral while the discussions are ongoing, demonstrating their commitment to the party’s overall interests rather than individual candidates.
Furthermore, Adomako Kissi emphasizes the importance of unity within the NPP, particularly in the aftermath of their 2024 electoral defeat. He believes that public endorsements of this nature can exacerbate existing divisions and hinder the party’s efforts to rebuild and strategize for future elections. Instead of fostering a collaborative environment where all members feel valued and heard, such endorsements can create an “us vs. them” mentality, potentially alienating supporters of other candidates and hindering the party’s ability to present a united front.
Another point of contention raised by Adomako Kissi is the perceived superficiality of public endorsements. He argues that declarations of support do not necessarily translate into votes and can even backfire if they alienate key constituencies within the party. While such endorsements may generate media buzz and create an appearance of momentum, they do not guarantee electoral success. He suggests that focusing on building grassroots support and engaging in meaningful dialogue with party members would be a more effective strategy for securing votes.
The former MP’s criticism underscores the delicate balance the NPP must strike as it navigates its internal rebuilding process. While healthy competition among candidates is expected, premature endorsements and overt displays of factionalism can undermine the party’s overall strength and cohesion. Adomako Kissi’s comments serve as a cautionary tale, urging party members to prioritize unity and strategic decision-making over individual ambitions. He advocates for a more measured approach to internal contests, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and respect for all viewpoints within the party.
The controversy surrounding the endorsement of Dr. Bawumia highlights the challenges faced by the NPP as it prepares for its internal elections. The party must find a way to manage internal competition while maintaining unity and focus on its broader political goals. The debate over the MMDCEs’ role in the electoral process adds another layer of complexity to this already delicate situation. Finding a solution that satisfies all stakeholders and strengthens the party’s position will be crucial for the NPP’s future success. Adomako Kissi’s criticisms serve as a reminder of the potential pitfalls of premature endorsements and the importance of strategic thinking in navigating internal party dynamics. The coming months will reveal how the NPP addresses these challenges and prepares for the 2026 primaries.
