A senior member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and former Minister of Works and Housing, Samuel Atta Akyea, has urged party delegates to elect a flagbearer who will not bring embarrassment to Ghana on the world stage if elected president.
Speaking to delegates at Mpraeso in the Eastern Region on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, Atta Akyea emphasised the need for a leader with calm temperament, maturity and global diplomatic appeal, especially as the party prepares for its January 31, 2026 presidential primary.
“Don’t Elect Someone Who Will Insult World Leaders” — Atta Akyea Warns
In a direct caution to delegates, Atta Akyea said the NPP must avoid choosing a candidate whose conduct could tarnish Ghana’s image internationally.
“Let’s not make a mistake and elect someone who will insult world leaders when he travels to the United Nations,” he told the gathering.
Although he did not name any specific aspirant, his remarks were widely interpreted as a veiled reference to concerns about temperament in the ongoing contest.
Atta Akyea Endorses Dr. Bawumia for 2026 Flagbearer
The former MP openly threw his support behind Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, describing him as the most suitable candidate to lead the NPP into the December 2028 general elections.
“He possesses the temperament, maturity and statesmanship required to engage constructively with the international community,” Atta Akyea said.
He noted that the former Vice President remains the candidate best positioned to uphold Ghana’s diplomatic stature.
Five Aspirants Battle in High-Stake NPP Primaries
Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia is among five candidates seeking to lead the NPP after his historic low performance in the 2024 general elections, where he recorded the party’s worst percentage since 1996.
The other contenders include:
- Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, former Assin Central MP and Bawumia’s strongest challenger
- Dr. Bryan Acheampong, former Minister of Food and Agriculture
- Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, former Education Minister
- Kwabena Agyei Agyepong, former NPP General Secretary
The January 2026 primary is expected to be one of the most competitive in the party’s history as the NPP strategizes for a potential comeback in 2028.
