A photo collage of Kennedy Agyapong and Dr Mahamudu Bawumia

A former Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in Fomena, Akwasi Nti, has issued a caution to the party's leadership ahead of its upcoming flagbearer election scheduled for January 2026.

Nti stressed the need for absolute fairness and transparency in the selection of the party’s next presidential candidate, warning that any perceived bias or imposition could lead to greater divisions than what occurred during the departure of former Trade Minister, Alan Kyerematen.

“The party must prioritize the concerns of the grassroots and youth. It should not be about how long someone has served the party, even someone who joined yesterday may bring fresh, transformative ideas,” he said while speaking in an interview on Oyerepa TV on June 18, 2025.

According to him, the NPP’s focus must shift from internal politics to addressing the pressing challenges faced by its grassroots members. He believes that the lack of attention to such grievances is what fueled the exit of Alan Kyerematen, who later broke away to form his own political party.

Nti cautioned that if the party attempts to unfairly favour one candidate over another in the 2026 primary, the consequences could be even more disastrous.

“This time, the party must listen to the base. The two leading contenders Kennedy Agyapong and Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia are not just ordinary members.

“They are strong forces within the party, and we must ensure fairness so that whoever loses will feel respected enough to stay with the party,” he warned.

“Mark my words if they repeat the mistakes of the past, the outcome will be worse than Alan’s departure.”

Meanwhile, other notable figures have emerged as potential contenders in the upcoming race, including Bryan Acheampong, Member of Parliament for Abetifi; Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum, Member of Parliament for Bosomtwe; and Boakye Agyarko, a former Energy Minister.

AM/KA

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