Kwasi Addai Odike, a prominent businessman and politician, has thrown his weight behind Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum’s bid for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential nomination for the 2028 general elections. In a public endorsement on July 29, 2025, Odike lauded Dr. Adutwum as the standout candidate among the NPP hopefuls, emphasizing his “exceptional leadership qualities and proven track record,” particularly during his tenure as Minister of Education. Odike positioned Dr. Adutwum as a unifying force capable of galvanizing the NPP and inspiring national confidence, arguing that his experience, vision, and leadership style make him the ideal candidate to steer the party towards victory in 2028. This endorsement underscores the growing momentum behind Dr. Adutwum’s candidacy, evidenced by increasing support from grassroots delegates and key constituencies within the Ashanti Region.
Odike’s endorsement hinges on Dr. Adutwum’s achievements as Education Minister, a period he characterized as “one of the best in Ghana’s history.” He specifically highlighted Dr. Adutwum’s focus on expanding STEM education and modernizing the educational sector, asserting that these innovative policies have established a new standard for future leaders to emulate. This emphasis on educational reform suggests that Odike believes this specific area of Dr. Adutwum’s experience resonates strongly with the electorate and positions him as a forward-thinking leader capable of addressing critical national development needs. The endorsement also carries weight due to Odike’s own political standing, lending credibility and visibility to Dr. Adutwum’s campaign.
The timing of Odike’s endorsement, well ahead of the NPP primaries scheduled for January 31, 2026, is strategically significant. It serves to build early momentum and generate positive media attention for Dr. Adutwum, allowing him to establish a strong presence in the public discourse as the race takes shape. By framing Dr. Adutwum as the candidate best suited to unite the NPP and regain public trust, Odike aims to influence the narrative surrounding the party’s future and position Dr. Adutwum as the leader capable of restoring the NPP’s electoral prospects after the 2024 elections. This early endorsement also provides Dr. Adutwum with ample time to consolidate his support base and refine his campaign strategy ahead of the primaries.
Beyond the specific policy achievements mentioned by Odike, the endorsement implicitly highlights Dr. Adutwum’s broader leadership attributes. By focusing on qualities such as vision, experience, and leadership style, Odike paints a picture of a well-rounded and capable leader prepared to tackle the complexities of the presidency. This emphasis on leadership qualities aims to differentiate Dr. Adutwum from other potential contenders and present him as a mature and seasoned politician ready to assume the highest office in the land. Moreover, by stressing Dr. Adutwum’s ability to unite the NPP, Odike subtly addresses the potential for internal divisions within the party and positions his chosen candidate as the figure capable of bridging those divides and fostering a cohesive and effective political force.
The mention of growing support among grassroots delegates and traders in the Ashanti Region, particularly in Kumasi, further strengthens Dr. Adutwum’s position. This grassroots enthusiasm provides tangible evidence of his appeal and suggests that his message is resonating with key segments of the NPP’s base. The Ashanti Region, traditionally a stronghold for the NPP, holds considerable sway within the party, and strong support from this region can significantly influence the outcome of the primaries. By highlighting this localized support, Odike reinforces the narrative of Dr. Adutwum’s growing momentum and his ability to connect with voters on a personal level.
Odike’s endorsement of Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum marks a significant development in the race for the NPP’s 2028 presidential nomination. By emphasizing Dr. Adutwum’s record as Education Minister, his leadership qualities, and his growing support base, Odike aims to establish him as the frontrunner and the candidate best positioned to lead the NPP to victory. This endorsement, combined with grassroots enthusiasm and the strategic timing of its announcement, signals a concerted effort to shape the narrative surrounding the NPP’s future and solidify Dr. Adutwum’s position as a leading contender for the presidency. The next few months will be crucial for Dr. Adutwum to capitalize on this momentum and build a strong, cohesive campaign that resonates with NPP delegates and the broader electorate.
