Hamza Suhuyini, a prominent member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) communications team, has expressed his strong belief that the New Patriotic Party (NPP) is highly likely to choose Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the former Vice President, as their flagbearer for the 2028 general elections. Suhuyini’s assertion stems from his assessment of Bawumia’s position within the NPP, arguing that he remains the party’s most viable option to lead them back to power. This perspective, shared during an interview on Channel One TV’s Breakfast Daily, highlights Suhuyini’s conviction that Bawumia holds a distinct advantage over other potential contenders within the NPP.
Suhuyini’s analysis goes beyond mere speculation. He grounds his prediction on Bawumia’s role as the party’s leader in the 2024 elections, suggesting that this experience and exposure have solidified his standing within the party. While acknowledging Bawumia’s apparent strength, Suhiyini also offered a word of caution, advising the former Vice President to resist the temptation to manipulate the internal election process. He emphasized the importance of a fair and transparent contest, warning against any actions that could compromise the integrity of the party’s selection process. This advice, according to Suhuyini, stems from a genuine concern for the NPP’s future and serves as a “harmless” recommendation for Bawumia and his campaign team.
The backdrop to Suhuyini’s remarks is the NPP’s recent announcement of January 31, 2026, as the date for their presidential candidate election. This decision, approved during a National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting, sets the stage for a potentially intense intra-party contest as various aspirants vie for the coveted position. Suhuyini sees this early date as a strategic maneuver by Bawumia to solidify his influence within the party ranks before a complete reorganization takes place. He posits that this timing allows Bawumia to capitalize on his existing momentum and consolidate support among party members.
Suhuyini’s perspective offers an interesting insight into the dynamics within the NPP as they prepare for the 2028 elections. His assessment of Bawumia’s position, coupled with his advice against manipulating the internal election process, paints a picture of a party navigating a delicate balance between consolidating existing power structures and ensuring a fair and transparent selection process. The early date for the presidential candidate election adds another layer of complexity, potentially influencing the strategies and campaigns of various aspirants.
The implications of this early election date are multifaceted. For Bawumia, it presents an opportunity to capitalize on his current standing and solidify his position as the frontrunner. However, it also carries the risk of exposing any vulnerabilities or internal divisions within the party. For other potential contenders, the early date presents a challenge, requiring them to accelerate their campaigns and build momentum in a shorter timeframe. The race for the NPP’s presidential candidacy promises to be a closely watched affair, with the outcome potentially shaping the political landscape in the lead-up to the 2028 general elections.
Suhuyini’s comments, while coming from a member of the opposing party, offer a valuable external perspective on the NPP’s internal dynamics. His observation about Bawumia’s likely candidacy and his caution against manipulation highlight the challenges and opportunities facing the NPP as they seek to regain power in 2028. The party’s decision to hold the presidential candidate election early adds another layer of intrigue, setting the stage for a potentially dynamic and consequential contest. The outcome of this election will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the NPP’s prospects in the 2028 general elections and the broader political landscape of Ghana.
