Former Vice-President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia has called on members of the New Patriotic Party to strengthen unity, uphold discipline, and deepen engagement within the party following his victory in Saturday’s presidential primary. He framed the win as a shared achievement and a stepping stone toward electoral success in 2028.
Speaking to party executives, delegates, and supporters after the polls, Dr Bawumia acknowledged the intensity of the contest, describing it as both challenging and necessary. “To secure anything precious in this life, we must be prepared to fight the hard battles, prepared to work hard and be prepared to withstand difficult circumstances,” he said. He added: “Tonight, victory is for all of us. I am grateful. The NPP is grateful to you all, and Ghana is grateful.”
He expressed appreciation for the role played by party delegates, election officials, security agencies, and the media, highlighting the primary as a testament to the NPP’s tradition of internal democracy. Dr Bawumia emphasized that the outcome should be respected by all, irrespective of whom they supported.
“It matters not which side you supported, winners and those who didn’t win at this particular time, we are in this together,” he said, urging members to prioritize cooperation over competition. He warned against loyalty based on personal preference or factional interests, stressing that unity must be unconditional.
Dr Bawumia said his election reflects broad-based support and carries the responsibility to heal divisions and rebuild trust ahead of the next general election. “My election today communicates a broad based appeal across the party, and I need to draw directly on that capital to unite the party as one of the crucial steps to winning power in 2028,” he noted.
Outlining his plans for engagement, he highlighted the importance of connecting with party elders, grassroots members, and particularly the youth, whom he called central to the party’s future. Addressing younger supporters, he said: “As flag bearer, I will do everything to ensure that the NPP listens more to you, is more mindful of your views and is more reflective of your desires.”
Dr Bawumia also stressed discipline as a cornerstone for electoral success. “An army that lacks discipline will struggle to win its battles,” he said, according to a Graphic Online report. “The NPP needs to step up discipline internally, discipline in our operations, discipline in our communications, and discipline in the conduct of our members.”
While the victory brought celebrations, he urged supporters to keep enthusiasm in check. “Let us celebrate in moderation,” he said. “As far as I am concerned, everybody has won.”
The former vice-president took time to honor his campaign teams, party executives, security agencies, and the media. He offered special thanks to his family, singling out his wife: “In particular, I want to express my heartfelt thanks to my beautiful wife, Samira. She has been a solid pillar to me in this campaign.”
Official results from the Electoral Commission showed Dr Bawumia winning 110,643 votes out of 195,901 valid ballots cast, securing a clear majority. Former Assin Central MP Kennedy Ohene Agyapong came second with 46,554 votes, followed by Dr Bryan Acheampong with 36,303. Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum and Mr Kwabena Agyei Agyepong placed fourth and fifth respectively.
