Manasseh Azure Awuni, a prominent investigative journalist in Ghana, has ignited a fresh wave of discussion within the New Patriotic Party (NPP) by publicly endorsing Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia as the party’s strongest contender for the 2028 general elections. Azure’s endorsement, delivered via a concise yet impactful Facebook post, comes at a crucial juncture for the NPP, as the party grapples with the aftermath of its 2024 electoral defeat and prepares for its upcoming presidential primaries. This endorsement, while originating from outside the party’s formal structures, carries significant weight due to Azure’s reputation for insightful political commentary and his keen understanding of the Ghanaian political landscape.
Azure’s assertion that Bawumia represents the NPP’s “best bet” and “most formidable candidate” for 2028 resonates with a growing sentiment within the party’s rank and file. Bawumia’s perceived strengths lie in his ability to unify the party’s diverse factions, energize the grassroots base, and project a forward-looking vision for Ghana’s future. These qualities are seen as crucial for the NPP’s revival and its prospects of regaining power after the setback of the 2024 elections. Azure’s endorsement serves to amplify these perceptions and further solidifies Bawumia’s position as a frontrunner in the upcoming primaries.
The timing of Azure’s intervention is particularly significant, coinciding with the NPP’s official announcement of the date for its presidential primaries. The primaries, scheduled for January 31, 2026, are expected to be a fiercely contested affair, with several prominent figures within the party likely to vie for the coveted nomination. The setting of a concrete date for the primaries has effectively launched the race, intensifying the internal dynamics and strategic maneuvering within the NPP. Azure’s endorsement, in this context, acts as an early catalyst, framing the narrative around Bawumia’s potential candidacy and setting the stage for a potentially polarizing contest.
Bawumia’s appeal as a potential flagbearer stems from a confluence of factors. Firstly, his extensive experience as Vice President, coupled with his deep involvement in policy formulation and implementation, positions him as a seasoned and knowledgeable leader. Secondly, his charisma and communication skills have resonated with a wide cross-section of the electorate, particularly among the youth. Thirdly, his perceived commitment to economic modernization and technological advancement aligns with the aspirations of a significant segment of the Ghanaian population. These attributes, combined with his ability to bridge internal divisions within the NPP, make him a compelling figure for the party’s leadership.
However, Bawumia’s path to the NPP’s nomination is not without its challenges. He is likely to face stiff competition from other ambitious figures within the party, each with their own strengths and support bases. The primaries will be a crucial test of his ability to mobilize support, navigate internal politics, and articulate a compelling vision for the party’s future. The outcome of the primaries will not only determine the NPP’s leadership for the 2028 elections but also shape the broader political landscape of Ghana.
Azure’s endorsement, while impactful, is just one piece of a complex puzzle. The NPP’s internal dynamics, the evolving political climate in Ghana, and the performance of the incumbent government will all play a role in shaping the outcome of the 2028 elections. Bawumia, even if he secures the NPP’s nomination, will face the arduous task of convincing the broader electorate of his vision for the country and his ability to deliver on his promises. The journey to the 2028 elections is long and fraught with uncertainties, and Bawumia’s path to victory, even with Azure’s backing, is far from guaranteed. The upcoming primaries will be a crucial first step in determining whether Bawumia can indeed become the NPP’s standard-bearer and ultimately, the next President of Ghana.
