Renowned investigative journalist Manasseh Azure Awuni has waded into the debate over the future of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), outlining seven pivotal reasons why Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia remains the most viable candidate to lead the party into the next general elections.
In an opinion piece published on Thursday, January 29, 2026, Awuni argued that despite the party’s recent electoral losses, the former Vice President’s track record, character, and political trajectory make him the “man to beat” in the upcoming primaries.
1. Tested and Most Marketed
Awuni contends that Bawumia is the NPP’s most prepared “electoral product.” He highlighted that in the 2024 elections, Bawumia secured nearly 4.9 million votes (41.75%), significantly outperforming the party’s parliamentary showing, where the NPP won only 32% of seats.
“These figures show that the NPP’s defeat in 2024 represented a rejection of the party, not just the candidate,” Awuni noted.
2. A Unifier in a Fragile Party
Drawing a biblical parallel to King Solomon, Awuni praised Bawumia’s willingness to concede the 2024 election early to preserve national peace. He described this as a “demonstrable act of bravery” that separates him from contenders who might operate under a “win or destroy” mantra.
3. A “Sacrificial Lamb” Who Paid His Dues
Dismissing claims that Bawumia is an “outsider” to the NPP’s Danquah-Busia-Dombo tradition, Awuni reminded critics of the former Vice President’s role as the star witness in the 2012 election petition and his tireless campaigning in 2016.
The “Face” of Promises: While often mocked for unfulfilled promises, Awuni argues Bawumia took the “vicious attacks” intended for the entire party, shielding others who now hold office because of that victory.
4. History Favors the Third Attempt
Awuni pointed out a historical pattern in Ghana’s Fourth Republic where candidates often lose their first two attempts after a party’s eight-year cycle before winning.
Atta Mills: Lost 2000, 2004; Won 2008.
Akufo-Addo: Lost 2008, 2012; Won 2016.
John Mahama: Lost 2016, 2020; Won 2024. Awuni suggests Bawumia is on a similar trajectory and has a solid base of 5 million votes to build upon.
5. Shared Responsibility for Economic Failures
While critics point to the collapsed economy under Bawumia’s watch as head of the Economic Management Team, Awuni argues that fellow contenders like Kennedy Agyapong and Dr. Bryan Acheampong share the blame. He noted that as MPs, they had the power to block controversial taxes like the E-Levy but chose to approve them.
6. Independence from the “Puppet” Tag
Awuni addressed fears that a Bawumia presidency would merely be an extension of the Akufo-Addo dynasty. He cited the precedent of Professor Atta Mills, who maintained independence from Jerry John Rawlings, and noted that current internal dynamics suggest Akufo-Addo is taking a more neutral stance in this race.
7. Superior Messaging
Finally, Awuni lauded Bawumia’s ability to present a “coherent campaign message.” Compared to his rivals Kennedy Agyapong, Dr. Osei Yaw Adutwum, and Dr. Bryan Acheampong. Awuni believes Bawumia’s policy presentations remain the most structured and persuasive.
