The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has officially begun its search for a new leader, marking a pivotal moment as it sets its sights on Ghana’s 2028 general elections.
Why Now — and What’s Driving the Timeline?
With the next general election scheduled for December 2028, the NPP’s constitution mandates that its presidential candidate be elected no later than 24 months prior – placing the primaries firmly in 2026.
According to Article 12 of the party’s constitution, preparations for the internal elections must begin at least six months before the National Delegates Congress. That process is already underway.
READ: Richard Ahiagbah defends early NPP flagbearer election as constitutional
Key Dates to Note
At a National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting held on June 17, 2025, in Accra, General Secretary Justin Frimpong Kodua confirmed two critical timelines:
- National Delegates Congress – Scheduled for July 2025
- Presidential Primaries – Set for January 31, 2026
The NEC meeting followed Chairman Stephen Ntim’s announcement of a medical break. In his absence, Vice Chairperson Danquah Smith Buttey chaired the session – a clear reflection of the party’s leadership-centric, top-down structure.
Congress Planning Committee Named
To ensure the successful organisation of the National Delegates Congress, the party has announced a high-powered planning committee led by:
- Chairperson: Joe Osei-Owusu
- Vice Chairperson: Henry Nana Boakye
Other members include:
- Dr. Charles Dwamena
- Haruna Mohammed
- Jerry Ahmed Shaib
- Salam Mustapha
- Abena Osei-Asare
- Divine Agorhum Otoo
- Hajia Safia Mohammed
The 2026 Race: Who’s in the Spotlight?
This isn’t the NPP’s first internal contest. Ahead of the 2024 election, former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia secured the flagbearer slot after a competitive race against contenders like Kennedy Agyapong, Owusu Afriyie Akoto, and Joe Ghartey.
READ: NPP to hold presidential primaries in January 2026
But following the party’s defeat in the 2024 general elections, the stakes for 2026 are higher than ever. This is not just about electing a flagbearer – it’s about defining the NPP’s future.
Key figures currently drawing attention include:
- Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia
Still a dominant political figure, but his 2024 campaign failed to deliver victory. Can he rally the base again? - Kennedy Agyapong
Once seen as divisive, Agyapong’s popularity is growing. His decision not to defend his Assin Central seat—later lost by the NPP—remains controversial, but his support base is passionate and vocal. - Bryan Acheampong
The Member of Parliament for Abetifi is quietly gaining momentum. Known for his strategic, measured approach, he is seen as a key figure in the Eastern Region—a potential stronghold. - Kwabena Agyepong
The former General Secretary and past flagbearer hopeful has declared his intent once more, bringing institutional memory and a reformist stance to the table. - Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum
The former Education Minister has also declared his intention to run, adding further depth to an already competitive field.
READ: Adutwum declares intent to contest NPP presidential race
What’s at Stake?
For the NPP, this is more than just a leadership race; it’s a moment of reckoning. The next leader must not only unite a fractured party but also energise the grassroots and craft a compelling vision to recapture power.
READ: NPP more focused on power than Ghanaians – Omane Boamah
As the clock ticks toward January 31, 2026, the road ahead promises to be intense, emotional, and decisive.
Let the race begin!
Source: Ghana/Starrfm.com.gh/Benjamin Sackey
