Kofi Bentil, Senior Vice President of IMANI Africa, a prominent think tank in Ghana, has publicly endorsed Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia as the ideal candidate to lead the nation. Bentil argues that Bawumia’s vision for Ghana surpasses any other proposed plans from competing political figures. This endorsement comes at a crucial juncture in Ghanaian politics, as the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) grapples with the aftermath of its worst electoral defeat and prepares for its next flagbearer election. Bentil’s emphatic statement, “#LetDMBLead,” underscores his conviction in Bawumia’s leadership capabilities and sets the stage for a potentially intense contest within the NPP.
Bentil’s endorsement highlights the significance of policy proposals and vision in the upcoming leadership race. He explicitly challenges other aspirants to present plans that rival Bawumia’s, suggesting that the former Vice President has already set a high bar for the competition. This challenge frames the debate around concrete policy ideas and their potential impact on Ghana’s future. It also positions Bawumia as a forward-thinking leader with a clear vision for the country, thereby setting the tone for the upcoming campaigns.
The timing of Bentil’s endorsement is also noteworthy. The NPP recently announced January 31, 2026, as the date for its next flagbearer election, signaling the official start of the race. While Dr. Bawumia hasn’t formally declared his candidacy, his acknowledgment of support from a group of NPP Members of Parliament suggests he is seriously considering another run. This endorsement from a respected figure like Bentil adds significant weight to his potential campaign and could influence other party members.
The NPP’s internal dynamics further complicate the leadership landscape. The party is navigating the fallout of its 2024 electoral defeat, which has undoubtedly heightened the stakes for the upcoming flagbearer election. The rivalry between Bawumia and Kennedy Agyapong, another prominent contender who has already declared his intention to run, adds another layer of complexity. Both camps claim to have the majority support within the party’s parliamentary caucus, suggesting a fierce battle for internal influence and control.
The field of potential candidates is already becoming crowded. Alongside Bawumia and Agyapong, other prominent figures are rumored to be considering bids, including former Education Minister Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, Member of Parliament Bryan Acheampong, and former NPP General Secretary Kwabena Agyei Agyepong. This diverse range of potential candidates promises a dynamic and potentially divisive contest within the NPP. Each candidate brings unique strengths and weaknesses to the table, adding further intrigue to the upcoming election.
The forthcoming NPP flagbearer election will be a critical moment for the party’s future. The outcome will not only determine its leadership but also shape its political direction and strategy in the lead-up to the next general election. Bentil’s early endorsement of Bawumia injects a strong dose of support for the former Vice President, framing him as a frontrunner and setting the stage for a potentially intense and highly contested race. The party will undoubtedly face challenges in unifying behind its chosen candidate after what promises to be a hard-fought contest. The ability of the eventual winner to bridge divides within the party and present a compelling vision for Ghana will be crucial to the NPP’s chances of regaining power.
