The Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has explained the rationale behind the party’s decision to hold its presidential primary on January 31, 2026.
Some members of the party, including longtime party members, have criticised its decision to hold the primaries, citing disunity in the party.
According to most of the critics, it is premature to embark on such a move, given the ongoing calls for unity within the party.
However, in his response to the criticisms, Wontumi stated that the party’s constitution clearly outlines the rules governing its internal processes.
He explained that whenever the NPP is in opposition, it is required to hold internal elections not less than 24 months before the next general election.
“We are ready to win power in 2028. That is why we have used Article 13(1). Article 13(1) states that anytime we are in opposition, not less than twenty-four months, we can have the election. Due to recent deliberations, the National Council has decided that the party’s presidential primaries will be held first on January 31 before any other elections. This decision is rooted in lessons from past elections,” Wontumi told journalists during the NPP’s National Annual Delegates Conference on July 19.
He explained that in 1992, during Ghana’s Fourth Republic, Professor Adu Boahen contested the national elections.
At the time, the party had only a few months to campaign, and because they delayed preparations, it affected their chances of winning, adding that it led to the party’s adoption of Article 13(1).
“In 1992, during the Fourth Republic, when Professor Adu Boahen ran for office, the party had only three months to campaign. The limited timeline affected its chances significantly. Learning from that experience, in 1995, the party ensured a longer campaign window when John Agyekum Kufuor was elected flagbearer, giving him about six months to prepare. This led to the adoption of Article 13 (1), which allowed for more strategic planning,” Wontumi said.
“In 1998, the same delegates who voted in 1995 participated again, as their terms had not yet expired. They chose Kufuor once more, and the party had nearly two clear years to campaign before the 2000 elections which significantly benefited the NPP,” he added.
He also emphasised that holding the presidential election primary early is critical for the party, as it would give the selected candidate ample time to campaign, mobilise support, and prepare adequately.
“Now that the party is in opposition, holding the presidential primary early is crucial. It allows the selected candidate enough time to mobilise, build momentum, and engage the electorate ahead of the 2028 general elections,” he noted.
The National Chairman aspirant for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) stated that the decision made by the party executives is final and not open to further debate.
He stressed that the date selected for the presidential primaries is fixed and will not be changed.
“The National Council made this decision in full exercise of its discretion. It is not up for further discussion. With this timeline, the party can concentrate on other critical activities such as minor and major registration exercises and work through internal challenges effectively.
“Although different views are expected in any large political party, this decision is final. Regardless of varying opinions, the January 31 date stands, and the process will proceed to ensure the party elects a strong leader in time,” Wontumi reiterated.
Watch the video on GhanaWeb TV below:
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You can also watch more videos from the conference below: