Accra: The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has decided to hold its presidential primaries on January 31, 2026, an earlier date than anticipated by many. This move has sparked a debate within the party, with critics expressing concerns that the advantages of selecting a flagbearer well in advance may come at the expense of internal unity.
According to Ghana News Agency, five aspirants are vying for the position: Former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, former Member of Parliament Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, Member of Parliament and former Minister Bryan Acheampong, Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, and former General Secretary Kwabena Agyei Agyepong. The campaigns have already commenced, with candidates engaging in intense competition, sometimes using severe rhetoric. Some aspirants and observers report increasing infighting as the stakes escalate.
In response to concerns about the internal campaign potentially harming party unity, the NPP leadership has issued guidelines to promote respectful campaigning and reduce discord. Despite these efforts, high stakes seem to have diminished adherence to the guidelines, with some aspirants and supporters openly criticizing opponents. This prompted the party leadership to take disciplinary action.
Mr. Justin Frimpong Kodua, the NPP's General Secretary, referred the party's Bono Regional Chairman, Mr. Kwame Baffoe (Abronye DC), and National Communications Officer Ernest Owusu-Bempah to the party's Disciplinary Committee for alleged breaches of the party's code of ethics. Mr. Kodua emphasized that maintaining discipline, cohesion, and mutual respect within the party is crucial.
Polls conducted by Global Info Analytics indicate that Dr. Bawumia is currently leading, with 57% of NPP voters expressing their preference for him. Kennedy Agyapong follows with 29%, while Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, Dr. Bryan Acheampong, and Kwabena Agyepong trail with 6%, 5%, and 3%, respectively. Dr. Bawumia also leads in key swing regions. However, a significant portion of delegates remains undecided, indicating potential for shifts in support.
The stakes for the NPP are high, as the party seeks to recover from its loss in the 2024 general elections and present a credible alternative for 2028. While selecting a flagbearer early allows for extended campaigning and resource mobilization, negative campaigning risks leaving lasting divisions within the party.
Dr. Bernard Tutu Boahene, a Lecturer and Political Marketing Strategist, highlighted the impact of late primaries on the NPP's brand image and campaign effectiveness in 2024. He advocates for building trust among aspirants and addressing differences before the election to ensure party unity and brand strength.
An effective opposition is essential for democracy, ensuring good governance and accountability. The NPP must present itself as a credible alternative, challenging the government and representing citizens' concerns. Successfully managing internal elections without significant fractures could strengthen Ghana's democratic fabric. Conversely, unresolved internal conflicts could undermine the opposition's effectiveness in challenging the ruling party.
