Political Analyst Dr. Jonathan Asante-Otchere has thrown his weight behind Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, describing the NPP flagbearer hopeful as the most suitable candidate to lead the New Patriotic Party (NPP) into the 2028 general elections.
Speaking to Tutuwaa Danso on Starr Today, Dr. Asante-Otchere argued that Dr. Adutwum sets himself apart through his technocratic expertise, visionary leadership, and a solid track record of transforming Ghana’s education sector.
“In my view, Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum would have been the ideal candidate for the NPP. He carries less political baggage and represents a fresh, credible face for the party,” he stated.
However, the analyst noted that internal party traditions could pose a barrier to Dr. Adutwum’s rise.
He pointed out that the NPP has historically adhered to a liberal conservative philosophy—where aspirants are expected to “mark time” and rise through the ranks before assuming leadership.
“Unfortunately, this principle was not consistently applied, particularly in the case of Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia,” he noted.
Tracing the NPP’s leadership history, Dr. Asante-Otchere highlighted a clear pattern of progression—from Prof. Adu Boahen to President John Agyekum Kufuor.
He recalled that while Kufuor made efforts to elevate Alan Kyerematen, those efforts fell short, eventually paving the way for Nana Akufo-Addo to win the flagbearership.
“When it came time for Akufo-Addo to hand over the mantle—despite earlier promises to Alan—he instead endorsed Dr. Bawumia.
This decision has not only raised questions about the fairness of the succession process but also disrupted the internal balance of the party’s liberal conservative tradition,” Dr. Asante-Otchere concluded.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh/Benjamin Sackey

