Bawumia's Key Advantages for NPP Leadership

As the New Patriotic Party (NPP) gears up for its internal elections, the question on everyone’s mind is who will lead the party to victory in the next general elections. With several contenders vying for the top spot, one name that keeps popping up is Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. Despite being part of an administration that has been criticized for its handling of the economy, Dr. Bawumia’s candidacy is being touted as the party’s best bet for 2028 or 2032.

Dr. Bawumia’s closest contender, Kennedy Agyapong, has had his fair share of losses, including the 2023 primaries and the 2024 general elections in his home constituency and region. In contrast, Dr. Bawumia won almost 5 million votes in the 2024 presidential election, representing about 42% of the national vote. This impressive showing, despite the party’s overall poor performance, has led many to believe that Dr. Bawumia is the NPP’s most marketable candidate.

The unity of the NPP is also a major concern, with some candidates being accused of operating with the mantra of ‘it’s either I get it, or I destroy it.’ However, Dr. Bawumia has demonstrated his ability to put the collective interest above his personal interest, as seen in his concession of defeat in the 2024 elections. This act of bravery and strength of character has endeared him to many within the party, who see him as a level-headed unifier.

Despite being labeled an outsider by some, Dr. Bawumia has paid his dues to the party. He was the sacrificial lamb who testified in court during the 2012 presidential election petition and campaigned tirelessly for the party in 2016. His wife, Samira, also played a crucial role in the campaign, taking the heat off the presidential candidate. While some may call him a liar due to unfulfilled promises, Dr. Bawumia was not the only beneficiary of the 2016 victory, and his contributions to the party’s success should not be overlooked.

History and pattern also favor Dr. Bawumia’s candidacy. Since Ghana’s return to multiparty democracy in 1992, no party has served more than two 8-year terms. The NPP’s loss in 2024 was not solely due to Dr. Bawumia, but rather a rejection of the party. With almost 5 million votes to build on, Dr. Bawumia is in good company and on a good trajectory.

One of the major criticisms against Dr. Bawumia is his role in the last NPP administration, which was accused of mismanaging the economy. However, it is essential to note that the MPs, including Kennedy Agyapong, Dr. Bryan Acheampong, and Dr. Osei Yaw Adutwum, approved the Finance Minister’s loans and expenditure. Dr. Bawumia, as a member of the administration, cannot escape collective responsibility, but it is unfair to place the blame solely on him.

Finally, Dr. Bawumia has presented the most coherent campaign message among the contenders, with a clear vision for the party’s future. While some of his promises may be untenable, his message is more comprehensive than that of his opponents. As the NPP looks to the future, Dr. Bawumia’s candidacy offers a glimmer of hope for a party seeking to rebound from a disappointing election result.

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