The New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) flagbearer aspirants have pledged to run campaigns rooted in issues, mutual respect, and discipline as the contest to succeed former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo gathers momentum.
The commitment was reached on September 11, 2025, during a high-level meeting with the NPP’s National Council of Elders, aimed at safeguarding unity ahead of the party’s presidential primaries on January 31, 2026.
Elders call for discipline and respect
At the meeting, the Elders urged aspirants to shun personal attacks, inflammatory rhetoric, and divisive tactics. They encouraged contenders to focus on their track records, policy proposals, and realistic plans for Ghana’s future.
To reinforce discipline, an Ad Hoc Committee has been established to receive and investigate complaints—especially those involving denigrating remarks or actions capable of harming the party’s image.
Aspirants reassure the party
The four leading aspirants—Vice-President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, former Assin Central MP Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, former Food and Agriculture Minister Dr. Bryan Acheampong, and former Education Minister Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum—all expressed their resolve to maintain harmony throughout the campaign.
While Mr. Agyapong and Dr. Adutwum attended the meeting in person, Dr. Bawumia participated via Zoom. Dr. Acheampong was represented by Asante-Akim North MP Andy Appiah-Kubi.
The Council emphasized that all aspirants will be held to the principles of discipline, mutual respect, and unity in both conduct and communication.
Unity seen as key to 2028 elections
Looking ahead to the 2028 general elections, the Elders warned that internal divisions could undermine the NPP’s chances of retaining power. They assured aspirants of a fair playing field but also vowed swift action against any behavior that risks discrediting the party.
With tensions expected to rise as the primaries draw closer, the collective pledge by aspirants signals an attempt to avoid the bitter factional disputes that have weakened ruling parties in past election cycles.
