‘Same way you took Alan’s money but voted for Akufo-Addo, do same and vote for Bawumia’ – Wontumi tells NPP delegates

The Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has called on party delegates across the country to rally behind former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia as the NPP prepares for its 2026 presidential primaries.

In a passionate address captured in a viral video, Chairman Wontumi urged delegates to disregard the influence of money from competing aspirants and instead focus on the future and unity of the NPP. He argued that Dr. Bawumia remains the most capable and experienced candidate to lead the party to victory in the 2028 general elections.

“During the Akufo-Addo and Alan contest in 2012 and 2014, you took money from Alan Cash but still voted for Akufo-Addo because you believed in his leadership,” Wontumi reminded the delegates. “Now, I am telling you to do the same thing again. If others come with money, take it, but vote for Dr. Bawumia. He is the one who can continue our legacy and help the NPP retain power.”

Chairman Wontumi, known for his outspoken style and unwavering loyalty to the party, described Dr. Bawumia as a visionary leader who has proven his competence, loyalty, and dedication to Ghana’s economic transformation. He stated that the former Vice President’s record in managing the economy, advancing digitalisation, and championing government initiatives makes him the most suitable successor to lead the NPP into the next election cycle.

He went on to remind delegates of the importance of party unity, cautioning against divisions that could jeopardize the NPP’s chances in 2028. “We must remember that the NPP is stronger when we stand together. Dr. Bawumia represents the next phase of our progress, and if we all come together behind him, victory in 2028 is certain,” he emphasised.

The Ashanti Regional Chairman also took a swipe at critics who have questioned Dr. Bawumia’s leadership credentials following the 2024 election defeat, insisting that the setback should not define his political future. “Dr. Bawumia has served faithfully under President Akufo-Addo and has gained valuable experience. Every government faces challenges, but we must focus on the bigger picture — the continuity of our developmental agenda,” he said.

 

His comments have sparked mixed reactions within the NPP, with some party members praising his forthrightness and others expressing concerns over his remarks about taking money from other aspirants. Party insiders note that Wontumi’s influence in the Ashanti Region — a stronghold of the NPP — could play a crucial role in shaping the outcome of the upcoming presidential primaries.

Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia is expected to face stiff competition in the January 2026 primaries, which will feature other leading figures such as Kennedy Agyapong, former MP for Assin Central; Bryan Acheampong, MP for Abetifi and Minister for Food and Agriculture; Dr. Osei Yaw Adutwum, Minister for Education and MP for Bosomtwe; and Kwabena Agyepong, a former General Secretary of the party.

Political analysts suggest that the Ashanti Region will once again serve as the decisive battleground for the primaries, and Wontumi’s open endorsement of Dr. Bawumia signals the growing momentum behind his candidacy.

As the NPP gears up for its internal elections, Chairman Wontumi’s message serves as both a rallying cry and a reminder of the strategic importance of loyalty and pragmatism in securing victory — not just in the primaries, but in the national polls ahead.