The New Patriotic Party (NPP), a prominent political force in Ghana, has embarked on a meticulous journey to select its flagbearer for the 2028 general elections. This process, culminating in primaries scheduled for January 31, 2026, holds immense significance for the party’s aspirations of regaining power. Recognizing the potential for internal strife and the importance of maintaining a unified front, the NPP has proactively established a five-member ad hoc committee to oversee the campaign activities leading up to the primaries. This committee serves as a crucial mechanism for ensuring a fair, transparent, and decorous campaign environment, reflecting the party’s commitment to upholding its values and traditions.
The committee’s mandate encompasses a wide range of responsibilities, including monitoring the conduct of flagbearer aspirants and their supporters, receiving and investigating petitions related to hate speech and other campaign violations, and recommending appropriate actions, including disciplinary measures, where necessary. This proactive approach underscores the NPP’s dedication to maintaining a level playing field and preventing any actions that could jeopardize the integrity of the primaries or undermine party unity. By establishing this oversight body, the NPP aims to minimize internal conflicts and project an image of a cohesive and disciplined political force.
Chaired by Ing. Dr. Kwasi Abeasi, the committee comprises individuals with diverse backgrounds and expertise, reflecting the party’s commitment to inclusivity and ensuring a balanced approach to regulating the campaign process. Other members of the committee include Dr. Alex Glover-Quartey, Mr. Ato Hamilton, Mr. Kwadwo Afari, and Mr. Mark Opoku, who serves as the committee’s secretary. The composition of the committee reflects a strategic effort to assemble a team capable of handling the complexities and sensitivities associated with managing a competitive and high-stakes political campaign.
The formation of this committee follows a meeting between the party’s National Council of Elders and all the flagbearer aspirants. This meeting served as a platform for open dialogue and consensus-building, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and mutual respect throughout the campaign period. The Council of Elders, under the leadership of Hackman Owusu-Agyemang, has urged all aspirants, campaign teams, and supporters to cooperate fully with the committee’s work, stressing the party’s commitment to a peaceful and dignified primary process. This collaborative approach underscores the NPP’s recognition that a united front is essential for success in the 2028 general elections.
The five aspirants vying for the NPP flagbearer position represent a diverse range of political experience and perspectives. They include Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, former Assin Central MP Kennedy Agyepong, former Agric Minister Bryan Acheampong, former Education Minister Dr. Osei Yaw Adutwum, and former NPP General Secretary Kwabena Agyei Agyepong. Each candidate brings unique strengths and experiences to the table, promising a robust and engaging campaign period. The competition between these individuals will undoubtedly shape the future direction of the NPP and its political agenda.
The establishment of the ad hoc committee signifies the NPP’s proactive approach to managing the potential challenges associated with competitive internal elections. By prioritizing transparency, accountability, and adherence to party values, the NPP aims to ensure a smooth and dignified primary process. The ultimate goal is to strengthen party unity and emerge from the primaries as a cohesive force capable of challenging the incumbent government in the 2028 general elections. The success of this committee’s efforts will be crucial in determining the party’s ability to project an image of stability and unity, factors that will undoubtedly influence the outcome of the general elections.
