The New Patriotic Party (NPP) in Ghana is gearing up for a crucial presidential primary election in January 2026, a contest viewed as a pivotal step towards reclaiming power in the 2028 general elections. Mr. Louis Amoako-Mensah, Chairman of the NPP USA, Massachusetts Chapter, has issued a fervent appeal for unity within the party ranks, emphasizing that the ability to coalesce around a single candidate after the primaries will be paramount to their success. He underscored the detrimental effects of disunity and internal strife, citing the party’s defeat in the 2024 elections as a stark reminder of the consequences of a fractured front. The early primaries, he argues, are strategically designed to provide ample time for healing, reorganization, and the consolidation of support behind the chosen flagbearer. This period of reconciliation is deemed essential for presenting a united and formidable force in the upcoming general elections.
The upcoming NPP presidential primary has attracted five prominent contenders, each bringing their own strengths and experiences to the table. The field includes former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, former Member of Parliament Kennedy Agyapong, former General Secretary Kwabena Agyei Agyepong, former Agriculture Minister Dr. Bryan Acheampong, and former Education Minister Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum. Mr. Amoako-Mensah acknowledges the caliber of each candidate, describing them as “brainy, competent, and marketable leaders” capable of inspiring confidence among the Ghanaian electorate. While recognizing their individual merits, he stresses the importance of the delegates’ ultimate choice, urging them to prioritize unity and the best interests of Ghana when casting their votes. The selection process, he emphasizes, must transcend personal preferences and focus on identifying the candidate best equipped to lead the party to victory and address the nation’s challenges.
Mr. Amoako-Mensah’s call for unity extends beyond simply rallying behind the chosen candidate; it encompasses a rejection of divisive tactics that could undermine the party’s cohesion. He cautions against smear campaigns, tribalism, and religious labeling, urging delegates to focus instead on the candidates’ competence, vision, and proposed solutions to pressing national issues. He specifically highlights the importance of scrutinizing each candidate’s approach to tackling critical challenges such as illegal mining (galamsey), inflation, and economic instability. The delegates, he argues, should carefully evaluate the candidates’ messages and platforms, selecting the individual best equipped to address these complex problems and lead the nation towards economic growth and stability.
The chairman’s message underscores a crucial aspect of the delegate’s responsibility: the need to consider the broader interests of the Ghanaian populace, not just the internal dynamics of the NPP. He emphasizes that the chosen candidate must not only resonate within the party but also command the respect and support of the wider electorate. This appeal transcends partisan lines, recognizing that the ultimate goal is to select a leader capable of uniting the nation and addressing the concerns of all Ghanaians. The delegates, therefore, are tasked with making a choice that resonates not only within the NPP but also across the broader political landscape.
Mr. Amoako-Mensah’s emphasis on national interest is further illustrated by his focus on key policy areas. He challenges delegates to consider which candidate is best positioned to tackle the pervasive issue of illegal mining, a practice that has devastating environmental and economic consequences for Ghana. He also highlights the pressing concerns of inflation and economic instability, urging delegates to assess each candidate’s proposed solutions and select the individual with the most viable and effective plan for economic recovery and growth. This focus on policy underscores the importance of choosing a leader not just for the party but for the nation, a leader capable of addressing the most critical challenges facing Ghana.
Finally, the Chairman of the NPP USA, Massachusetts Chapter, reaffirms the commitment of Diaspora leaders to remain neutral throughout the primary process, entrusting the crucial decision to the delegates within Ghana. However, he stresses the paramount importance of selecting a candidate capable of regaining the trust of the Ghanaian people. This, he believes, is the key to the NPP’s success in the 2028 elections. He concludes with a powerful plea for peace, focus, and a strategic approach, urging delegates to prioritize the candidate who can not only unite the party but also capture the hearts and minds of the Ghanaian electorate. This, he emphasizes, is the only path back to power for the NPP.
