Bawumia Claims Competence to Lead NPP

The former Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has declared his readiness to lead the New Patriotic Party (NPP). He asserts he has the integrity, competence, and humility needed for the role. Bawumia believes he is ready to guide both the NPP and Ghana. He spoke to supporters after filing his nomination in Accra on Thursday, August 28. In his speech, in fact, Bawumia made clear that Bawumia claims competence is his key quality.

Dr. Bawumia highlighted the party’s desire for a leader. That person should reflect its core values. These values, for instance, include liberal democracy, the rule of law, and private enterprise. He believes he possesses all the qualities required for the role. “The NPP and Ghana are demanding a leader who embodies deep intellect, humility, respect for all persons, unity, courage, foresight, and resilience.” Consequently, he offered himself to lead the party into the 2028 elections. His message, therefore, resonated with his supporters.

Bawumia stressed that the upcoming primary was not just about electing a flagbearer. It was, in fact, about preserving the party’s very soul. The choice delegates make on January 31 will, therefore, determine the NPP’s future. It will decide whether the party stays true to its founding values. Alternatively, it may become a party that deepens divisions between the rich and poor. His comments show the high stakes of this race.

The filing event drew hundreds of enthusiastic supporters to the party headquarters. Dr. Bawumia was accompanied by his wife, Samira Bawumia. In addition, he was greeted with loud cheers as he officially submitted his nomination forms.

Dr. Bawumia is set to face a tight contest. His closest rival from the 2023 race, former Assin Central MP Kennedy Agyapong, has also filed to contest. Other aspirants include former NPP General Secretary Kwabena Agyapong and Abetifi MP Bryan Acheampong. Furthermore, former Education Minister Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum has declared his interest. He is, consequently, expected to file his nomination later today. Meanwhile, another aspirant, Francis Addai-Nimoh, has withdrawn from the race. He cited unhealthy monetization and internal bias as reasons for his decision. The Bawumia claims competence speech, in short, came at a crucial time. This shows the complex dynamics of the race.

Source: Patricia Boakye for CitiNewsroom, August 28, 2025