The political landscape within Ghana’s New Patriotic Party (NPP) is buzzing with activity as potential candidates begin to position themselves for the party’s flagbearer election slated for January 31, 2026. Recent reports suggesting a groundswell of support for Kennedy Agyapong, a former Member of Parliament for Assin Central, among former Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) have been categorically refuted. A group of these former MMDCEs, who served under the previous NPP administration, held a press conference to clarify their position, stating unequivocally that they had not endorsed Mr. Agyapong’s candidacy. Instead, they publicly declared their support for Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the former Vice President. This clarification throws into sharp relief the complex dynamics and emerging alliances forming within the NPP as the race for the party’s leadership heats up.
The controversy stemmed from a meeting held between Mr. Agyapong and a number of former MMDCEs. Following this meeting, reports circulated claiming that over 250 of these officials had endorsed Mr. Agyapong’s bid to lead the NPP into the 2028 general elections. This claim, however, was swiftly countered by Ebenezer Doku, the former Municipal Chief Executive for Adenta in the Greater Accra Region. Mr. Doku, who was present at the meeting with Mr. Agyapong, asserted that no such endorsement took place. He emphasized that the meeting was primarily a social gathering, involving conversation and dining, and no formal declaration of support was made for any candidate. The subsequent public declaration of support for Dr. Bawumia by this group of former MMDCEs further underscores their intention to distance themselves from the narrative of an Agyapong endorsement.
The public denial by the former MMDCEs highlights the importance of accurate reporting and the potential for misinformation to spread rapidly, particularly in the politically charged atmosphere leading up to an election. The swift and decisive response from the former MMDCEs demonstrates their commitment to transparency and their desire to ensure that their position is clearly understood by both party members and the wider public. The incident also underscores the competitive nature of the emerging flagbearer race, with various camps vying to garner support and project an image of momentum.
The race for the NPP flagbearer position is shaping up to be a closely watched contest, with several prominent figures potentially vying for the nomination. Alongside Mr. Agyapong and Dr. Bawumia, other names being discussed include former Education Minister Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, Member of Parliament for Abetifi Bryan Acheampong, and former General Secretary Kwabena Agyei Agyepong. Each candidate brings a unique set of experiences and perspectives to the table, promising a dynamic and engaging campaign period.
The early stages of the race are characterized by behind-the-scenes maneuvering and public displays of support, as candidates seek to build alliances and solidify their base of support within the party. The endorsement of Dr. Bawumia by a significant group of former MMDCEs represents a significant boost to his campaign, signaling his growing influence within the party. It remains to be seen, however, how these early declarations of support will translate into votes when the party members cast their ballots in January 2026.
The NPP’s flagbearer election will undoubtedly be a pivotal moment for the party, determining the direction and leadership of the party as it prepares for the 2028 general elections. The outcome of this internal contest will have significant implications not only for the NPP but also for the broader political landscape in Ghana. The next two years will be crucial for each candidate to articulate their vision for the party and the country, and to persuade party members that they possess the necessary leadership qualities to guide the NPP to victory. The unfolding events within the NPP will be closely scrutinized by political analysts and the public alike, as the party navigates this critical period of internal competition and renewal.
