Kwasi Kwarteng, the legal representative and campaign spokesperson for Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, exudes unwavering confidence in his candidate’s prospects in the upcoming New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential primaries. He firmly believes that Agyapong, the former Member of Parliament for Assin Central, possesses a significant advantage and is poised to secure the flagbearership even before the official election date of January 31, 2026. Kwarteng’s assertion, made during an interview on Accra-based JoyPrime, reflects the Agyapong campaign’s optimism and perceived momentum.
Central to Kwarteng’s argument is the perceived vulnerability of the campaign of Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the former Vice President and NPP’s 2024 flagbearer. Kwarteng alleges that Bawumia’s campaign is facing internal discord and a significant loss of support, primarily due to the perceived withdrawal of backing from former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo. He portrays Akufo-Addo as having been the driving force behind Bawumia’s previous campaigns, likening him to the captain of a ship. According to Kwarteng, Akufo-Addo’s apparent disengagement has left Bawumia’s campaign adrift and uncertain about its future direction.
Further amplifying the alleged disarray within Bawumia’s camp, Kwarteng points to the defection of key figures, including Bryan Acheampong, the former Minister of Food and Agriculture, who is also contesting the NPP flagbearership. Kwarteng claims that Acheampong was a crucial member of Bawumia’s inner circle and was even considered a potential running mate. However, he now asserts that Acheampong, along with other significant financial backers, has lost faith in Bawumia’s presidential aspirations. This apparent shift in allegiance, according to Kwarteng, further weakens Bawumia’s position and bolsters Agyapong’s chances.
While Kwarteng’s claims offer a glimpse into the internal dynamics of the NPP and the perceived state of the various campaigns, it’s crucial to recognize that these are assertions from a partisan source. The actual level of support for each candidate, the influence of former President Akufo-Addo, and the true extent of any internal divisions within Bawumia’s camp remain to be seen. The political landscape is dynamic, and alliances can shift. Therefore, these claims should be considered within the context of a competitive political environment where strategic positioning and messaging play a significant role.
Ultimately, the outcome of the NPP primaries will depend on a multitude of factors, including the candidates’ ability to mobilize support within the party, their appeal to the broader electorate, and their articulation of a compelling vision for Ghana’s future. While Kwarteng’s statements reflect the confidence of the Agyapong campaign, the race is far from over, and the true test will come when the party members cast their votes. The intervening months will likely witness intensified campaigning, strategic alliances, and potentially further shifts in the political landscape.
As the NPP navigates this crucial period of internal competition, the stakes are high. The chosen flagbearer will not only represent the party in the 2026 presidential election but will also carry the responsibility of unifying the party after a potentially divisive primary contest. The ability to bridge internal divides, energize the base, and present a united front will be essential for success in the general election. Therefore, the coming months will be a period of intense scrutiny for all the candidates as they strive to demonstrate their leadership qualities, political acumen, and vision for Ghana.
