In a groundbreaking turn of events, the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) is poised to shake up the political landscape with the possible election of a non-Akan candidate to lead the party into the highly anticipated 2024 general election after today’s delegates’ conference.
Adding to the significance of this momentous occasion, is electing a vice president for the coveted slot for the first time in NPP.
It is the first time a Vice President from the NPP’s ranks will be chosen as the party’s presidential candidate if the bookmakers are proved right as several polls tipped Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia to lead the party after today’s conference.
Vice President Dr. Bawumia, a highly respected and influential figure within the NPP stock, is widely considered as the frontrunner to secure victory in Saturday’s primary.
However after the polls with counting underway, Kennedy Agyapong appears to be proving the bookmakers wrong with the bagging of substantial number of votes.
If Bawumia or Kennedy wins, it will be the first time, a a timer contestant will be leading the NPP to a general election.
Bawumia exceptional track record in economics, governance and unwavering commitment to the party’s principles have garnered him extensive support from both party members and the wider electorate.
Dr. Bawumia’s bid to secure the presidential candidacy signifies a potential shift in the traditional power dynamics within the NPP.
Although Dr. Bawumia is the favourite, he faces stiff competition from Kennedy Agyapong, Member of Parliament for Assin Central.
Agyapong, known for his outspoken nature and strong grassroots support, which has manifested in the number of votes garnered by the maverick politician.
Mr Agyapong has been a prominent figure within the NPP and has amassed a considerable following throughout his political career.
His campaign seeks to challenge the status quo and present an alternative vision for the party’s leadership.
Another notable contender in the race is former Minister for Agriculture, Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto.
Dr. Akoto, an experienced technocrat, brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table. With his strong agricultural background and proven leadership abilities, his perceived arrogant has betrayed him.
His chances are very slim as party delegates tag him as very ‘arrogant’.
The former Agriculture minister says his trump card is with farmers, claiming that he endeared himself to the farming community when he was a minister.
It’s not clear the number of farmers who are delegates in the NPP primary as the the initial results suggest that he is not a strong contender.
Also, former Member of Parliament for Mampong Francis Addai-Nimoh was considered as a dark horse who was touted as an aspirant to look out for to pull a surprise.
Former Minister of Trade and Industry, Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen, made waves in September when he resigned from the party after the Special Delegates Conference. He subsequently declared his intention to contest as an independent candidate, citing intimidation of his supporters.
The outcome of the primary will undoubtedly have far-reaching implications for both the NPP and the Ghanaian political landscape as a whole.
The potential election of a non-Akan candidate as the NPP’s flagbearer would mark a significant departure from the party’s historical trends and could potentially reshape the dynamics of power within the party.
It would also send a strong message of inclusivity and diversity, reflecting the changing political climate in Ghana.
A total of 203,439 delegates marched out to cast their votes on who to lead NPP into the next general election.
By Vincent Kubi