In a statement issued by the party’s Presidential Elections Committee (PEC), the NPP confirmed that copies of the 2026 Presidential Elections Voter Register have been dispatched to all constituencies through the Regional Secretariats.

Signed and dated December 29, 2025, by the PEC Secretary, William Yamoah, the statement explained that the exercise will allow party delegates and other stakeholders to cross-check their personal details at the constituency and regional levels.

The exhibition is expected to help uncover and correct errors such as missing names, spelling mistakes, incorrect or absent photographs, and other clerical issues that could potentially affect eligibility and participation in the presidential election.

Regional and Constituency Executive Committees, working through their designated IT officers, have been tasked to officially document and submit all identified discrepancies for immediate correction.

The verification exercise is scheduled to run from Wednesday, December 31, 2025, to Monday, January 5, 2026.

To ensure broad participation and transparency, the party has urged Regional and Constituency Executives, members of the Constituency Council of Elders, Constituency Patrons, and Electoral Area Coordinators to actively support the process across the country.

The NPP has also invited all presidential aspirants to nominate representatives to observe the exercise at the constituency level, reinforcing the party’s commitment to openness and fairness.

The party maintains that the exhibition of the voter register is a critical step toward delivering a free, fair, and credible internal election as it prepares for the 2026 presidential race.

ALSO READ:

• Ashanti NPP Council of Elders salutes Minority Caucus

• Serve NPP, not an individual – Kwabena Agyepong appeals to members [Listen]

• NPP primaries: Kwabena Agyepong questions effectiveness of Ad-hoc committee monitoring campaigns

Addressing journalists in Accra on Monday, December 29, Ofoase Ayirebi MP Kojo Oppong Nkrumah said the scale of the reported loss warrants immediate and thorough scrutiny for the benefit of Ghanaians.

“The Gold-for-Reserves initiative, intended to strengthen foreign reserves and stabilise the cedi, has instead become shrouded in opacity, with troubling questions surrounding pricing, intermediaries, and oversight,” he noted.

Mr. Oppong Nkrumah outlined a four-point plan, starting with the establishment of a Parliamentary Ad-hoc Investigative Committee. “The committee must be empowered to subpoena all contracts, licences, and intermediaries involved in the programme, including what we describe as the ‘Bawa-Rock monopoly,’” he said.

The Minority also called for full national disclosure, urging the Bank of Ghana and GoldBod to publish details of the programme, including fee structures, pricing formulas, aggregator selection criteria, and foreign-exchange arrangements tied to gold purchases.

Highlighting environmental concerns, the caucus demanded emergency measures such as suspending mining permits in forest reserves and introducing blockchain-based, mine-level traceability systems for all gold purchases under the scheme.

Insisting on accountability “without fear or favour,” the Minority demanded that the Governor of the Bank of Ghana and the CEO of GoldBod appear before the committee and cooperate fully with the investigation. “Where negligence or corruption is established, criminal prosecutions must follow, and all recoverable funds must be clawed back,” he stressed.

Framing the issue as a national concern rather than a partisan one, the Minority said the controversy challenges Ghana’s ability to protect its natural resources.

“This crisis transcends politics. It is about whether Ghana still has guardians or only spectators,” the caucus declared.

The Minority also called on traditional leaders, faith-based organisations, traders, students, labour unions, civil society, academia, and the diaspora to speak up in defense of the country’s patrimony.

“Gold may glitter, but truth endures,” Mr. Oppong Nkrumah warned, adding: “May history record that when our gold was taken, our rivers poisoned, and our future mortgaged, we all stood up.”

He concluded by urging Ghanaians to demand accountability, describing the moment as “not a time for spectators, but a moment for citizens.”

ALSO READ:

• Source of GoldBod’s trading funds questioned amid reported $214m loss

• GoldBod sets records straight on IMF’s claims of $214m losses under gold-for-reserves programme

Speaking on the constitutional reform debate on JoyNews’ Newsfile, Barker-Vormawor explained that any attempt to amend the Constitution would require the support of at least 75 percent of Members of Parliament.

He noted that this high threshold effectively prevents a single political bloc from unilaterally driving changes.

“Every conversation, every discussion must go through Parliament… so as far as this is concerned, once the people approve, all discussions, all changes go through Parliament. It is just a different threshold within Parliament. In my opinion, this is what makes the minority very powerful, irrespective of how small they are,” he said.

According to Barker-Vormawor, even with a parliamentary majority, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) would be unable to meet the constitutional requirement alone, thereby compelling broader consensus and negotiation across the aisle.

“There is no way you can be able to meet the threshold that is required for the amendments without the minority being part of it. Meaning that there is no way the NDC can run and say we are changing everything without them (Minority),” he explained.

His comments come as national attention intensifies around the CRC’s recommendations, with stakeholders assessing both the substance of the proposals and the political arithmetic required to translate them into law.

In a statement issued on Thursday, December 25, the Council praised the Minority for its “unmatched commitment, resilience and sterling qualities” throughout the year, despite operating with a numerical disadvantage in the House.

According to the Elders, the Minority Caucus, with 87 Members of Parliament against a Majority of 189, has remained vocal and value-driven in debates, refusing to be sidelined by its limited numbers.

“This year, in the face of a disadvantaged numerical strength of 87 in favour of the Minority and the relentless tactics of bullying, frustration and intimidation by the Majority of 189, you have demonstrated unmatched commitment, resilience and sterling qualities in debates that speak to the very soul of our tradition,” the statement said.

The Council noted that it has closely followed parliamentary proceedings and expressed admiration for how the Minority has conducted itself amid what it described as sustained pressure from the Majority side.

Drawing from the Danquah-Busia-Dombo political tradition, the Elders described the Minority as steadfast defenders of liberty and constitutional governance, stressing that democracy thrives only when its core principles are courageously upheld.

The statement further highlighted the caucus’s leadership style, linking it to the human-centred philosophy of Dr. K.A. Busia. According to the Council, the Minority has shown that leadership is rooted not merely in power, but in service and respect for the dignity of the Ghanaian people.

The Elders also acknowledged the caucus’s efforts to promote unity and cooperation, in line with the inclusive ideals championed by S.D. Dombo. They noted that even in adversity, the Minority has sought dialogue and consensus, reinforcing the belief that national progress is best achieved through unity rather than division.

“These ideals of liberty, humanism and unity are not relics of history,” the statement said, adding that the Minority has carried these values into Parliament “with honour and conviction.”

The Council concluded by commending the caucus for its performance over the past year, stating that its conduct has reaffirmed the relevance of the Danquah-Busia-Dombo tradition as both a living heritage and a moral guide for principled political leadership.

According to Mr Acheampong, several of the agricultural interventions the NDC now intends to implement were already captured under the erstwhile NPP government’s Planting for Food and Jobs Phase Two initiative.

“If you look at the 2025/2026 budget of the NDC, the majority of the programmes they are running now can be found in the Planting for Food and Jobs Phase Two document.

“The targeted crops, including poultry, are the same ten crops we outlined. The targets are almost identical, and even the irrigation infrastructure featured in the budget includes projects I initiated and commissioned. It is not a bad thing, but the foundation was laid under the NPP,” he said.

Mr Acheampong explained that what the NDC now calls Nkokor Nkintikiti was developed by the NPP as a poultry intensification programme aimed at boosting domestic production, reducing poultry imports, and strengthening food security.

“We had projected the number of birds required over five years to significantly cut poultry imports and meet domestic demand,” he added.

Speaking on JoyNews’ PM Express, Mr Acheampong argued that the objectives of the Nkoko Nkintikiti programme align closely with long-standing NPP agricultural policy.

He said his decision to seek the NPP’s presidential candidacy is driven by a desire to build on these policy foundations and contribute meaningfully to Ghana’s development.

Mr Acheampong, who served as Minister for Agriculture under the erstwhile NPP government, added that returning the party to power would allow it to fully implement and scale up initiatives already begun in the agriculture sector and beyond.

He said he believes he is best placed to lead the NPP into the 2028 general elections.

ALSO READ:

• Mahama launches ‘Nkoko Nkitinkiti’ programme to boost poultry production

• Gov’t to construct processing plants for ‘Nkoko Nkitinkiti’ poultry programme

Speaking on JoyNews, Dr Acheampong said the absence of consequences for misconduct has contributed to a breakdown of discipline within the NPP.

“People are now allowed to say whatever they want on any platform, and there are no consequences for those actions. This is breaking down discipline in our party,” he said.

He assured party members that under his leadership, public insults and unrestrained attacks would no longer be tolerated.

“I will restore discipline. I can assure you that those who go around insulting everyone, regardless of whom they support, will no longer find space in our party from 1 February, if I become the candidate on 31 January,” he stated.

The Abetifi MP stressed that discipline within the party must be enforced without delay.

“Leave the details to me, but I can assure you that if I am elected on 31 January, discipline will be restored in the NPP from 1 February. It cannot continue the way it has been,” he added.

He said his first step would be to unite the various factions within the party.

“First of all, we will bring all the factions together, lay down our tools, and begin conversations about building bridges and restoring discipline in our party. That process will start on 1 January 2026,” he said.

Dr Acheampong emphasised the need for firm and decisive leadership to rebuild trust within the party.

“If there is a leader they can trust—one who will not remain silent or merely nod in the face of wrongdoing—I will stand for something, take responsibility, and ensure that discipline runs through our party from top to bottom,” he added.

ALSO READ:

• Gideon Boako slams Bryan Acheampong over alleged false claim involving Bawumia

• The party was fatigued – Bryan Acheampong explains why he entered NPP flagbearer race…

Speaking in an interview on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, Mr Agyepong said political campaigns should be driven by ideas and clear policy alternatives, rather than personal attacks that cross moral boundaries.

“We should be campaigning on ideas and letting delegates know what we are bringing on board. Hate speech and insults are not good,” he said, describing the trend as worrying.

According to him, the situation becomes particularly damaging when political actors direct attacks at the families of their opponents. He stressed that such actions go beyond acceptable political conduct.

“When you insult my wife, my children or my family, you have gone beyond the limit. At that point, reconciliation becomes very difficult,” he stated.

Mr Agyepong noted that while political actors often issue statements distancing themselves from such behaviour, stronger collective condemnation is required to curb the growing excesses. He emphasised that politics should not be treated as a do-or-die affair.

“This is an election. You either win or you lose. If you prepare yourself for all outcomes, it helps. It is not a matter of life and death; it is about service to the nation, and that service comes with a lot of work,” he said.

Touching on the broader state of the country, the former General Secretary expressed concern about Ghana’s economic direction, describing the situation as one of policy drift. He argued that persistent deficit budgeting remains a major challenge.

“The country is almost on autopilot. We keep running deficit budgets. Why should our expenditure always be more than our revenue?” he questioned.

ALSO READ:

• Serve NPP, not an individual – Kwabena Agyepong appeals to members [Listen]

• NPP primaries: Kwabena Agyepong questions effectiveness of Ad-hoc committee monitoring campaigns

Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, Mr. Agyepong said the committee has so far failed to brief aspirants on its activities or present any reports, despite expectations that it would provide regular updates on its monitoring work.

His concerns, he explained, stem from his experience as a former General Secretary of the party. In previous campaigns, clear structures were put in place to ensure coordination at the regional level, including the assignment of regional officers to support aspirants and relay accurate information to the national office.

“When you go to every region, you are supposed to be assigned a regional officer to assist your campaign and report accurately to the national level. Strangely, in some regions, these officers do not even want to meet you and make it difficult for you to operate,” he said.

Mr. Agyepong, however, noted that he remains focused on his campaign and is not distracted by what he described as lapses in the enforcement of campaign guidelines.

He emphasised that party executives, particularly regional chairmen, are expected to remain neutral and avoid openly endorsing any candidate.

“As a regional chairman, everybody knows you will vote, just like the IGP or the Chief Justice, but openly endorsing a candidate is wrong. It goes against the guidelines, yet these rules are being flouted,” he added.

The aspirant also said he had expected the Ad Hoc Committee to brief candidates on its activities and findings, but no such engagement has taken place.

The remarks follow an earlier announcement by the National Council of Elders of the NPP, which confirmed that the Ad Hoc Committee, chaired by Ing. Dr. Kwasi Abeasi, had begun monitoring the conduct of presidential aspirants and their campaign teams.

In a statement issued on Thursday, October 9, the Council urged all aspirants and supporters to cooperate fully with the committee and uphold discipline, mutual respect, and issue-based campaigning ahead of the party’s presidential primaries scheduled for January 31, 2026.

Despite his reservations, Mr. Agyepong reiterated his commitment to a peaceful, issue-driven campaign, stressing that party unity must remain a shared priority.

ALSO READ:

• NPP Primaries: Electoral Area Coordinators in Yunyoo, Chereponi and Saboba declare support for Bawumia

• NPP Primaries: I give delegates transport money – Bryan Acheampong

Speaking in an interview with Spear FM in Damongo during his campaign tour of the Savannah Region, Dr Bawumia called on delegates, particularly in the north and across the country, to focus on leadership qualities and performance rather than ethnicity or geographical origin.

“I’m asking for the support of our NPP delegates. That is why I’m campaigning and why I’m in the region,” he said.

“I am asking them, on January 31, to vote for me not because I come from the north. We don’t vote on that basis.”

He urged delegates to assess his candidature based on merit.

“They should vote for me on the basis of my track record, my competence, my integrity, my vision for the country and my experience,” he stated.

Dr Bawumia said his years of experience and impact as Vice President position him well to lead the country effectively as President.

“Under President Akufo-Addo, I have been adjudged by many as the most effective Vice President in the history of this country. That is an acknowledgement of my track record and the work I have done,” he said.

He added that with the delegates’ support, he could replicate that effectiveness at the presidential level.

“I want the delegates to help me become one of the most effective Presidents in the history of this country. That is why I need their support on January 31.”

Dr Bawumia expressed confidence that the NPP would return to power under his leadership in the 2028 general election.

“I believe that this party, the NPP, under my leadership, will come back to power after the 2028 elections. We will work hard for the party and for the people of Ghana,” he said.

“I want them to trust me, and by the grace of God, I will deliver victory in 2028.”

The meeting was held to formally notify the taskforce of the upcoming internal elections and to provide critical details, including the election timetable, venues and scope of activities, to support comprehensive security planning.

Speaking during the engagement, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Mr Christian Tetteh Yohuno, described the meeting as a necessary step to ensure effective coordination and preparedness for internal party elections.

He assured the Committee that the Ghana Police Service, working alongside sister security agencies, would collaborate with the Electoral Commission and the NPP to implement appropriate security measures to guarantee a peaceful, orderly and credible electoral process.

The IGP further reaffirmed the commitment of the National Election Security Taskforce to work closely with all stakeholders to maintain law and order, as well as public safety, before, during and after the elections.

The Chairman of the party’s Presidential Elections Committee, Joe Osei-Owusu, disclosed this on Thursday, December 17, during a meeting with the leadership of the Ghana Police Service and other security commanders in Accra, ahead of the internal polls.

Mr. Osei-Owusu explained that the election will be conducted across all 16 regions at 277 voting centres, with one centre in each region and two centres in Accra.

He added that the number of polling stations has increased to 332 after centres with more than 1,000 delegates were split into two, each serving a maximum of 500 voters, to promote efficiency and orderliness.

The NPP is expected to elect its flagbearer ahead of the 2028 general elections.

The contest will feature former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia; former Assin Central MP Kennedy Ohene Agyapong; former Education Minister Dr. Yaw Osei-Adutwum; Abetifi MP Bryan Acheampong; and former party General Secretary Engineer Kwabena Agyei-Agyepong.

READ ALSO:

• Bawumia not to blame for Ghana’s economic decline – Stephen Amoah
• Stephen Amoah predicts Kennedy Agyapong victory in seven regions
• Corn miller accused of Kantamanto Market arson granted bail
• Foreign Affairs Minister orders probe into death of Ghanaian student in Latvia

Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen show, Dr Acheampong said that although Bawumia is his main rival, he is currently leading based on his profiling of the delegates.

“My main competitor is Bawumia, but based on my analysis of the delegates, I am leading by a significant margin. I will win the NPP flagbearer race,” he said.

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has scheduled its presidential primary for Saturday, January 31, 2026, to select a flagbearer for the 2028 general elections.

READ ALSO:

• 
  Communication in 2028 elections will be largely AI-driven – Bryan Acheampong
• NPP Primaries: I know my voters, no candidate will beat me – Bryan Acheampong
• I have engaged 200,000 out of 209,000 delegates – Bryan Acheampong

Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen show, he said it is only right to give delegates transport funds when they travel several kilometres to attend meetings.

Mr Acheampong emphasized that this practice is not vote buying, but a standard and widely accepted procedure. He dismissed claims that he is distributing money to influence votes.

“If you invite delegates to a meeting, you should provide them with transportation money. Some people travel several kilometres just to meet with you, so it’s only fair to support them. It’s common practice to offer this assistance,” he said.

“However, I want to clarify that I do not engage in vote buying; I only provide transportation funds. This is something that everyone does. It’s merely propaganda to claim that I distribute money among delegates. Elections are competitive, and it’s not unusual for people to use propaganda; everyone wants to win,” he added.

READ ALSO:

I have engaged 200,000 out of 209,000 delegates – Bryan Acheampong

Bryan Acheampong salutes farmers, outlines vision for stronger agricultural sector

Pius Hadzide dismisses claims that Bryan Acheampong hoarded fertilisers

Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen show, Dr Acheampong said endorsements do not substantially influence the outcome of internal party elections, stressing that delegates are more focused on ideas and the direction of the party.

According to him, being a first-time aspirant is not a disadvantage, as party members are seeking a fresh candidate with a compelling message that can resonate with the wider Ghanaian electorate.

“Endorsements are not significant. Being a first-time candidate is not a disadvantage. People are looking for something new, someone they can relate to and who resonates with Ghanaians. The number of times a candidate has contested is not an advantage. What truly matters is the message they present,” he said.

Dr Acheampong noted that the total number of public endorsements across all aspirants is less than 500, compared to over 209,000 delegates expected to vote, describing the endorsements as largely inconsequential.

“So far, all the endorsements given to the various candidates collectively amount to fewer than 500, whereas there are 209,000 delegates. This illustrates that endorsements are inconsequential. The delegates are very aware of the direction we need to take as a party,” he stated.

READ ALSO:

• Kpandai: Supreme Court’s decision to suspend rerun surprising but fair – Justice Abdullai
• GTA’s Kofi Atta Kakra Kusi weds Sharon Danquah in grand ceremony
• Rev. Wengam leads Assemblies of God delegation to congratulate Chief of Defence Staff
• Atiwa East DCE must resign or be sacked – Senyo Hosi

He dismissed claims that he lacks popularity at the grassroots, insisting that he has a firm grip on the party’s delegate base.

Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen show, Dr Acheampong said propaganda narratives and psychological operations in politics will not affect his chances, as delegates have already made up their minds about their preferred candidate.

“I have profiled about 190,000 delegates. I know those who will vote for me and those who will not. None of the other candidates can beat me in this election,” he stated.

Dr Acheampong added that opinion polls would not change the minds of delegates, stressing that their choices are already settled.

He further revealed that his campaign is supported by a 40,000-member nationwide team, noting that he remains unperturbed by negative claims and fully confident of victory in the upcoming primary.

READ ALSO:

• Kpandai: Supreme Court’s decision to suspend rerun surprising but fair – Justice Abdullai
• GTA’s Kofi Atta Kakra Kusi weds Sharon Danquah in grand ceremony
• Rev. Wengam leads Assemblies of God delegation to congratulate Chief of Defence Staff
• Atiwa East DCE must resign or be sacked – Senyo Hosi

Addressing NPP delegates, Adwoa Safo urged party members to disregard narratives blaming Dr Bawumia for economic mismanagement, insisting that his role in key economic decisions was limited.

She maintained that he remains the most suitable candidate to lead the party going forward.

She argued that the shaping and execution of economic policy were largely influenced by other senior officials, particularly the former Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta.

Questioning attempts to shift blame onto Dr Bawumia, she asked, “Was Dr Bawumia the finance minister? Were we not in government when some MPs complained that because of the way the economy was being mismanaged, the finance minister should be changed? Didn’t he damage everything before he was changed? So how can we blame this on Bawumia?”

Adwoa Safo stressed that Dr Bawumia did not have the authority to override decisions taken at the highest levels of government.

Using a metaphor to illustrate her point, she said, “He was only the driver’s mate and could not overrule the driver, even if the driver was not performing well.”

Her remarks come amid criticisms from some flagbearer aspirants in the ongoing NPP presidential race, who have attributed the party’s economic record in government to Dr Bawumia.

The NPP is expected to elect its presidential candidate on January 31, 2026, ahead of the next general elections, with Dr Bawumia among five contenders vying for the party’s flagbearer position.

According to her, Dr Bawumia remains the strongest candidate to lead the NPP and should not be made a scapegoat for the party’s economic challenges.

Addressing some party delegates, Ms Adwoa Safo argued that Dr Bawumia did not wield ultimate authority over economic decision-making and therefore cannot be held solely accountable for the country’s economic difficulties.

She pointed to the significant role played by other senior government officials, particularly former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta, in shaping and implementing economic policy.

“Was Dr Bawumia the finance minister? Were we not in government when some MPs said that because of the way our economy was being mismanaged we should change the finance minister? Didn’t he damage everything before he was changed? So how can we blame this on Bawumia?” she questioned.

Ms Adwoa Safo further stressed that Dr Bawumia lacked the power to override decisions taken at the highest levels of government.

“He was only the driver’s mate and could not overrule the driver, even if the driver was not performing well,” she said.

Her remarks come amid criticism from some flagbearer aspirants in the ongoing NPP presidential primaries, who have blamed Dr Bawumia for the party’s economic record while in office.

The NPP is scheduled to elect its presidential candidate on January 31, 2026, ahead of the next general elections.

Addressing party delegates and supporters, Ms Adwoa Safo called for unity, introspection, and strategic thinking within the party. “It is time for Bawumia,” she said.

She emphasised that political ambition is natural and legitimate for all party members.

“I am a politician, and Honourable Kennedy Agyapong is also a politician. In the same way that Honourable Ken has his own opinions and ambitions, I also have my opinions, and I am pursuing my political career,” she stated.

Acknowledging the NPP as a broad church with delegates holding close family ties within its grassroots structures, she stressed that leadership decisions should be guided by the long-term interests of the party rather than personal or emotional considerations.

Ms Adwoa Safo dismissed claims that her support for Dr Bawumia stems from personal hostility toward Assin Central MP Kennedy Agyapong.

“I do not hate Honourable Kennedy Agyapong,” she said. “We have two beautiful children together, one male and one female; therefore, I do not hate Honourable Kennedy Agyapong. This is not a matter of family and friends in the NPP party.”

Reflecting on the party’s recent electoral defeat, Ms Adwoa Safo urged the NPP to learn from past mistakes. “We must learn lessons from our loss, which has rendered us in opposition,” she said, adding that one of the key factors behind the defeat was the perception that family and friends were prioritised while in government.

“While in government, we made that mistake, and it has cost us,” she observed.

The former minister highlighted her long record of service to the party and the nation, questioning whether her experience should be overlooked.

“I started contesting as a Member of Parliament in 2007, and I have been a member of the party from that period up until now,” she said. “I have served as a Member of Parliament for twelve years; I have been a Deputy Majority Leader, a Minister for Procurement, and a Minister for Gender. The question is: have I not served?”

While acknowledging Mr Agyapong’s significant contributions to the party, Ms Adwoa Safo raised concerns about her own political prospects should he emerge as party leader and eventually become President.

“I have never said he is going to win this contest,” she explained. “But let us assume he wins and becomes President, and he comes across my CV. Looking at the work I have done and how I have served this nation and my party, for someone I have two children with to consider appointing me as a minister would seem impossible; hell will break loose in this country. And the Kennedy Agyapong I know, with whom I have two children, would never do it. Therefore, my political career and future are at stake. My future lies with Dr Alhaji Mahamudu Bawumia,” she concluded.

The poll, conducted by Governance Lab Africa between November and December 2025, found that 51.8 per cent of the 340 party members surveyed would vote for Dr Bawumia if the presidential primary were held today.

He enjoys a commanding lead over his closest challengers, with Dr Bryan Acheampong polling 20.6 per cent and Kennedy Agyapong securing 18.8 per cent support.

According to the survey’s executive summary, “Dr Mahamudu Bawumia emerges as the clear frontrunner,” with a significant advantage over the rest of the field. The report further noted that voter preferences appear largely settled, with 84.4 per cent of respondents saying their choice of candidate is firmly decided.

The pollsters, however, cautioned that the findings reflect the views of general party members and not the actual delegates who will vote in the January 2026 primary, adding that internal party dynamics and lobbying could still influence the final outcome.

The survey also highlighted that economic concerns are shaping the race, with job creation and youth unemployment emerging as the top issue for 46.5 per cent of respondents ahead of the 2028 general election. Electability was another key factor, with 44.1 per cent of respondents saying the candidate’s ability to win the 2028 election is the most important quality they seek in a flagbearer.

Demographically, the sample was largely male (87.9 per cent) and highly educated, with 92.9 per cent holding tertiary qualifications. Despite the proximity of the primary, about 73.8 per cent of respondents admitted they were not closely following developments in the contest.

With the primary scheduled for next month, the findings suggest that Dr Acheampong and Mr Agyapong face an uphill battle in closing a more than 30-percentage-point gap in a race where most party members appear to have already made up their minds.

survey comprehensive reportDownload

READ ALSO:

• Strong Mahama backing in Kpandai yet to seal victory for NDC candidate, Global InfoAnalytics poll shows
• Kpandai rerun: Matthew Nyindam leads NDC candidate with 50% support – Global InfoAnalytics
• Influencer Peller involved in car accident

Released on Sunday, December 14, 2025, the poll shows Nyindam leading his closest rival, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate Daniel Nsala Wakpal, who has 46% backing.

Independent candidate Donkor Eric Nipani is projected to attract around 1% of the votes, while 3% of respondents remain undecided.

The survey reveals that the race remains tightly contested, with Nyindam’s lead falling within a ±3.9% margin of error, indicating limited movement among voters.

About 2% of Nyindam’s previous supporters have shifted to Wakpal, matched by an equal percentage of Wakpal’s supporters moving to Nyindam.

Notably, the poll highlights a significant transfer of support from Donkor Eric Nipani, with 28% of his previous backers now favouring Nyindam, contributing to his current marginal lead.

Global InfoAnalytics’ findings suggest that while the contest is highly competitive, Nyindam retains a slight edge, underscoring the importance of turnout and voter mobilisation in the lead-up to the rerun scheduled for December 30, 2025.

ALSO READ:

Kpandai Rerun: I genuinely hope Nyindam wins – Franklin Cudjoe

Minority demands resignation of Ayariga, Dafeamekpor over OSP repeal bill

Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen show, Mr. Kodua said every Ghanaian should be concerned about the direction in which the NDC is heading, particularly regarding judicial independence.

He claimed that the removal of former Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo by the Mahama-led administration was politically driven, arguing that the reasons for her dismissal were unclear and that the petition against her was never properly heard.

“The moment the Mahama-led administration removed the former Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, we knew they had a plan because the reasons were blurry. The petitions weren’t even heard; she was just sacked,” he alleged.

Mr. Kodua further pointed to recent rulings in politically related cases as evidence of what he believes are partisan influences.

“The judgments and rulings coming from political cases — you don’t need a soothsayer to tell you that it is politically biased,” he said.

He urged Ghanaians to remain vigilant and protect the independence of the judiciary, insisting that safeguarding the courts is essential for preserving the country’s democratic integrity.

READ ALSO:

• 
  JUSAG condemns mob attack on Kwame Danso District Court, demands closure for safety
• SSNIT introduces Annual Pensioner Certificate Renewal from April 2026
• NYA CEO urges Yango Couriers to demonstrate diligence and humility at 2025 Partner Conference

Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen show, Mr. Kodua accused the NDC of relying on “propaganda and lies” to win the last elections, arguing that key promises such as fixing the economy, tackling galamsey, addressing LGBTQ concerns, and ensuring national unity have not been fulfilled.

He explained that the NPP’s new constitution places strong emphasis on building a more effective and accountable communication machinery. According to him, making communication positions elective will enhance responsibility, efficiency, and overall performance.

“The NPP has always struggled with issues of propaganda and misinformation. The NDC used propaganda to win the elections, promising to fix the country, address issues like galamsey and LGBTQ rights, and provide strong leadership. However, none of these promises have been fulfilled. We are very confident that we will win the next general elections,” he said.

Mr. Kodua expressed confidence that the NPP’s ongoing reorganisation will position the party strongly ahead of the 2028 general elections.

“Our new constitution emphasizes improved party communication, and I’m proud that we are revamping our communication strategy. Moving forward, communication officers will be elected positions, from the national level down to the constituencies. The 2028 elections will be very interesting, and we believe that our party’s reorganization is on the right track,” he added.

READ ALSO:

• SSNIT introduces Annual Pensioner Certificate Renewal from April 2026
• NYA CEO urges Yango Couriers to demonstrate diligence and humility at 2025 Partner Conference
• IWIECON25: International Women In Education Conference 2025 opens in Accra
• Mahama orders withdrawal of Bill to repeal Special Prosecutor Act

Speaking on The Delay Show with Deloris Frimpong Manso, Mr. Kufuor encouraged party supporters to rise above internal differences and remain committed to the values that have shaped the NPP since its formation.

“Unity is key to the NPP’s future progress. We might not be friends or allies, but because we all believe in the principles and ideals of the party, it is important to unite to push the party,” he said.

He stressed that unity is essential not only for electoral success but also for effective governance, explaining that the Ghanaian electorate is more likely to trust a party that demonstrates cohesion and purpose.

“Ghanaians appreciate unity. We will be able to serve Ghanaians better if we are united to serve them well when we win power,” he added.

Mr. Kufuor’s appeal comes as the NPP undertakes internal restructuring following its loss in the 2024 elections. The party is set to elect its presidential candidate in January 2026 as part of a broader renewal and reorganisation plan.

Speaking in an interview, Kufuor recounted the challenges he faced within his own party as he prepared for the 2000 elections.

“I had 39% and I think that was exceptional,” Kufuor said, reflecting on the 1996 polls, where he lost to then-President Jerry John Rawlings. “Even before the next election, some people in my party wanted to see the back of me.”

The former President disclosed that party insiders spread serious allegations against him, including claims that he had diverted campaign funds during a tour of the United States.

“They said I embarked on a tour of America and party supporters gave me $100,000, which they alleged I deposited into my private bank account. It was a big lie,” he explained.

Kufuor said the NPP established a committee under the leadership of A. K. Deku, appointed by then-party chairman Peter Ala Adjetey, to investigate the claims.

“Those who made these serious allegations – one has died, and one is alive – could not provide any evidence when called to substantiate their claim,” Kufuor added.

Ultimately, the committee found no wrongdoing on his part, clearing the path for his nomination.

The NPP subsequently held its party congress in Sunyani in 1998, where Kufuor was selected as the Flagbearer and later went on to win the presidency in 2000.

Speaking on The Delay Show with Deloris Frimpong Manso, Kufuor revealed that he was not consulted on these decisions and admitted he never fully understood the rationale behind them. He noted that the NPP’s 2016 victory was built largely on the achievements of his own administration.

“Before the 2016 election in which Akufo-Addo was elected, the campaign was built on my achievements,” he said. “Those achievements played a key role in his victory. The government started on a good note, but things changed after he assumed power.”

The former President specifically highlighted the bond market turbulence, the PDS deal, and the National Cathedral project as decisions he struggled to comprehend. He expressed concern over the demolition of state properties, including judges’ apartments, to make way for the cathedral, which remains incomplete.

“After the COVID-19 pandemic, I could not understand some of the decisions taken, including the bond market issues, PDS, and the National Cathedral project, which has still not been completed,” he said. “I was not consulted, as I did not attend cabinet meetings. I only saw the construction. Apartments that housed judges and others were demolished for the National Cathedral, yet it remains unfinished.”

Reflecting on the party’s electoral journey, Kufuor contrasted the 2016 landslide victory with the tense 2020 election that produced a hung Parliament, and the eventual 2024 defeat.

“We won the 2016 elections by a landslide. The 2020 elections were tense and produced a hung Parliament, and the 2024 elections were something else entirely. This shows that the Ghanaian electorate should never be taken for granted. It is a lesson for politicians to be mindful of their actions,” he warned.

He insisted that the Kpandai MP has suffered a substantial miscarriage of justice, urging the Supreme Court to intervene and overturn the High Court ruling that nullified his 2024 parliamentary victory.

Speaking on Joy FM’s Top Story on Monday, December 1, Mr Nimako argued that the High Court, Commercial Division, in Tamale, fundamentally erred by assuming jurisdiction over a petition that was filed out of time.

“Matthew Nyindam has suffered a substantial miscarriage of justice before the court, and the Supreme Court must correct this injustice. We are simply saying that at the time the NDC petition was filed, the court ought not to have entertained the matter at all, let alone proceed to hear it and deliver judgement.”
he stated.

This follows Mr Nyindam’s application to the Supreme Court seeking to annul the High Court judgement, which ordered a rerun of the Kpandai parliamentary election.

According to Mr Nimako, the original election petition filed by the NDC did not meet the mandatory 21-day statutory deadline required after the publication of the gazette.

He explained that the petition challenging Mr. Nyindam’s election was filed on January 25, clearly outside the 21-day window, making the entire process void in the NPP’s view.

“We are waiting for the Supreme Court to hear the matter,” he added.

He made the announcement during a campaign stop, appearing publicly with Dr. Bawumia for the first time since switching sides.

Ofosu Asamoah explained that his decision comes after reassessing the direction of the primaries and concluding that Dr. Bawumia represents the party’s most viable path forward.

Speaking to delegates, he expressed confidence in Dr. Bawumia’s prospects for the 2028 elections.

“It is the same Ofosu Asamoah you see here. My relationship with Dr. Bawumia and his team is not new; I was simply not supporting him earlier this year. But in life, when you realize something isn’t right, you change your course. I have observed events closely, and as campaign manager for Kwabena Agyepong, I don’t think things are going as expected. I have therefore decided to switch camps, and I believe Dr. Bawumia is the next president,” he stated.

ALSO READ:

Gov’t confirms petitions against EC Chair, deputies and Special prosecutor forwarded…

Akosua Serwaa to appeal High Court ruling in widowhood case

Fuel prices set to rise slightly from today, Dec 1

Speaking to NPP delegates in Koforidua, Otchere Baafi commended Dr Bawumia for his courage and loyalty at a time when many senior party members were reportedly reluctant to step forward.

He recounted that during the Supreme Court proceedings, Dr Bawumia served as the party’s star witness, defending the NPP’s case “when all the men in the NPP ran away,” earning widespread admiration.

“Those who were there will remember. It was Dr Bawumia who stood in the dock, faced the tough questions, and defended the NPP with boldness and clarity. That is the type of leadership we need now,” Otchere Baafi emphasised.

He noted that Dr Bawumia’s performance during the petition marked a turning point in his political career, solidifying his reputation as one of the party’s most reliable leaders. Since then, he has remained steadfast in his commitment, contributing to policy development and serving in various capacities.

Otchere Baafi urged delegates to reward this loyalty by endorsing Dr Bawumia in the upcoming 31 January 2026 presidential primary, insisting he is the most experienced and marketable candidate to lead the NPP into the 2028 general election.

“Someone who stood for us in our most difficult times will surely stand for us again when it matters most. Dr Bawumia is the backbone we can trust,” he added.

He also called for unity within the party, stressing that only a united front behind a credible candidate can return the NPP to power.

Dr Bawumia, who has been touring the region since Monday, has already secured public backing from MPs, former appointees, parliamentary candidates, and party executives.

His campaign received another major boost on Friday as leaders across the Akuapem enclave declared their support.

In Akuapem South, Constituency Chairman Dankwa Peter Addo openly endorsed the former Vice President. Similar endorsements followed in Akuapem North and Okere, where constituency chairmen Omane Mensah Bonso and Justice Yaw Mensah described Dr Bawumia as the most “marketable” and “formidable” aspirant capable of leading the party to victory in 2028.

The show of support extended beyond current executives. Former Okere MP, Brandford Kwame Daniel Adu, also declared his support, urging party faithful in the area to stand firmly behind Dr Bawumia in the lead-up to the January 2026 primaries.

Grassroots endorsement was equally strong. In Akuapem North, 29 out of 31 electoral area coordinators publicly pledged allegiance to Dr Bawumia, promising to mobilise polling station executives in his favour.

“We work with the polling station executives, so just as we have demonstrated our support for you here, it will be the same down there, too,” the coordinators assured. “We commit to working very hard to ensure that you are victorious.”

Dr Bawumia’s team described the receptions across the constituencies as “electric,” pointing to what they say is a reflection of the former Vice President’s broad appeal within the party’s rank-and-file.

ALSO READ

Interior Ministry announces December 5 as statutory holiday for Farmers’ Day

Asunafo North MP commissions water system at Mim to end crisis

In the Biblical account, one of the two feuding women showed no concern for the safety of the baby and asked King Solomon to divide the child into two so they would each receive an equal share. But the wise King Solomon was able to identify the true mother because of the insensitive and jealous posture of the other woman, who lacked empathy and care.

Addressing NPP delegates in his constituency on Thursday, Oppong Nkrumah said some of the party’s aspirants were behaving like the woman who wanted the baby destroyed because she was not the rightful mother.

“I want to refer us all to the Bible, First Kings 3:16. This is where you find King Solomon and the two women who were fighting for the rights to a baby,” Oppong Nkrumah told his constituents.

“One of the women in the dispute told King Solomon to cut the baby in two. However, the Bible says that God gave King Solomon wisdom, and he realised that the true mother had sympathy for the baby, so she did not want the child killed or divided. King Solomon ruled in favour of the righteous woman, who desired peace and wanted the child to live. He declared her the true mother.”

Drawing parallels with the NPP’s internal contest, Oppong Nkrumah said that comments made by some aspirants appear aimed at creating confusion within the party, just as the jealous woman in the Solomon story sought the destruction of the baby.

“When you look at the conversations going on in our internal contest, you’ll realise that some of the aspirants are preaching positivity and unity for the party. Others, however, are like the woman who wanted the baby killed,” he said.

“When you listen to the messages of some aspirants, it is all about disunity, setting people against one another and causing confusion in our party. They only say things that will make the party unattractive.”

“However, one man, Dr Bawumia, never does that. Even today, now that he is here, he will not insult anybody or make comments that bring disunity. He always speaks about his vision and what he will do for this party and the country.”

“So, if you want to know—in Biblical context—who is the rightful owner (of the child) in this internal contest, as stated in First Kings 3:16, then the one creating disunity and chaos cannot be the rightful owner.”

Oppong Nkrumah appealed to delegates to recognise the situation and make the best decision for the NPP by electing Dr Bawumia to continue the progress the party has made, cautioning that some individuals are only seeking to destroy the party.

“I always say that in this party, we build up to a certain level, and then some people try to bring everything down. God has blessed us because, despite all the challenges in 2024, we had a man who was able to lead us to secure 41.7%. We now have an opportunity to present him again and build on what we have achieved. But some people are bent on destroying everything with divisive comments and encouraging you to tear it all down. These are people who do not love the progress of the party.”

Speaking to Adom News, the MP argued that Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia is a far more appealing candidate for the party’s presidential primaries, citing his clean record and measured temperament.

“There is no corruption allegation that has stuck with Bawumia,” Atta Kyea stated.
“Ken doesn’t take advice; he does as he pleases. His words don’t reflect well on him. His attitude cannot be hidden; it shows no matter how you try to cover it.”

He added that Dr. Bawumia’s discipline and composure make him a stronger contender for the NPP’s leadership, insisting that Kennedy Agyapong’s “political temperament” disqualifies him from becoming president.

Atta Kyea stressed that, in his view, the Vice President remains “the more attractive flagbearer” ahead of the primaries.

READ ALSO:

• Speaker refers Afenyo-Markin to Privileges Committee for contempt
• Speaker explains Kpandai seat cannot be declared vacant yet despite court ruling
• GoldBod under fire for withholding key financial data in latest report

In a letter dated November 21, 2025, and signed by William Yamoah, Secretary to the Presidential Elections Committee, the party informed key stakeholders that the guidelines had been finalised following extensive deliberations and resolutions by the committee.

Issued from the party’s headquarters, the communication expressed appreciation for the “invaluable insights, constructive engagement, and demonstrated cooperation” shown by aspirants and stakeholders during recent meetings.

The committee noted that such contributions have helped strengthen the integrity and efficiency of the party’s electoral processes.

The letter emphasised that the guidelines are intended to ensure the smooth conduct of the primary.

READ ALSO:

• Speaker refers Afenyo-Markin to Privileges Committee for contempt
• Speaker explains Kpandai seat cannot be declared vacant yet despite court ruling
• GoldBod under fire for withholding key financial data in latest report

This comes after Mr Nyindam reportedly prepared to contribute to proceedings.

The Majority Chief Whip, Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, immediately rose to his feet, vowing to block any attempt by the annulled MP to debate.

Speaking on the floor of Parliament on Wednesday, November 26, he insisted that Mr. Nyindam can no longer be recognised as a Member of Parliament.

“Mr. Speaker, the High Court in Tamale has ordered that the outcome of the December 7, 2024, election, which brought Honourable Nyindam to this House as the MP for Kpandai, was flawed. Therefore, that election has been ordered to be rerun. Ipso facto, the Honourable Nyindam is no longer a member of this House,” he stated.

Dafeamekpor argued that Parliament has already been served with the court’s judgment and supporting documents, stressing that the House is bound by the ruling until overturned.

“The mere filing of an appeal or a stay of execution does not operate to stop the judgment of the court,” he added. “We will not allow Nyindam to continuously carry himself as an MP, and we will not allow him to speak.”

“Mr. Speaker, these are very serious matters,” Dafeamekpor said. “He cannot enter the chamber and even attempt to debate.”

The stance by the Majority follows Monday’s ruling by the Tamale High Court, presided over by Justice Emmanuel Brew Plange, which annulled the Kpandai parliamentary results and ordered a fresh poll within 30 days.

Speaking on JoyNews’ The Pulse on Monday, NPP Director of Elections and Research, Evans Nimako, said the party cannot accept the court’s decision, insisting it goes beyond the petitioner’s claims.

“This cannot be a ruling that you expect the New Patriotic Party to welcome from a competent court of jurisdiction. For me, this is a dangerous ruling. The intent is to erode all the political and democratic gains we’ve made as a country,” he said.

Mr Nimako argued that the petitioner’s case involved alleged infractions in 41 out of 152 polling stations. Yet, the court annulled the results for the entire constituency instead of focusing on the areas in dispute.

“A petitioner comes to court with a plea that in 41 polling stations there have been some infractions, and you then give a ruling that, assuming—without admitting—that yes, the 41 had issues, the other 111, where there were no issues, should also be cancelled? What kind of dangerous ruling is this?” he questioned.

He added that the NPP won the seat by a margin of nearly 4,000 votes, securing 53.47% of the total ballots cast, and therefore finds it difficult to understand why the whole election should be annulled.

“This is a constituency the party won decisively. And you are telling me that you, the judge, will go beyond the plea of the petitioner? I don’t think this is the way to go,” he stressed.

The party has already filed an appeal, insisting that the ruling is legally flawed and must be overturned.

Speaking after the proceedings, counsel for sitting MP Matthew Nyindam said the party respects the authority of the court but cannot accept the ruling.

“In the heat up to the trial, we heard of several things, and we didn’t take them for granted. We believe the petition was frivolous, but the court has decided otherwise, so we respect its authority. But we strongly disagree with the judgment and have already filed a competent notice of appeal and a motion for stay of execution,” he said.

The legal team emphasized their commitment to exhausting all lawful means to reverse the decision.

“The only fight left for us is to follow the due process of the law by filing the notice of appeal. The motion for stay of execution has also been filed and the opposing party has been officially served,” the lawyer added.

The NPP defended the Electoral Commission’s (EC) relocation of the collation centre, citing violence at the original site.

“The EC has the right to relocate the collation centre under Regulation 48 of CI 127. The absence of a candidate or agent does not invalidate results,” the lawyer stated. He also argued that the disputed polling stations had no impact on the overall outcome, as the total votes involved would not have changed the winner.

MP Matthew Nyindam reiterated that he remains the duly elected representative.

“I want to put it on record that I’m still their MP. I know I won the election with a difference of 3,734 votes. Every single pink sheet was made available to all political parties, and our results confirm that we won,” Nyindam said.

He also accused the NDC of trying to overturn the outcome using state power.

“They decided to go to court hoping to leverage state influence to change results,” he said.

While expressing respect for the judicial process, Nyindam maintained that the ruling was flawed but confirmed readiness for a by-election if necessary.

“If a rerun is genuinely required, we won’t have a problem. But if the ruling is used to coerce outcomes because of government influence, that’s where the issue lies,” he noted.

ALSO READ:

• High Court orders fresh parliamentary election in Kpandai Constituency
• We’re happy with the court ruling – Kpandai 2024 NDC PC’s lawyer

• Kpandai seat was for NDC; court ruling has exposed ‘crooked electoral officers’ – Tanko…

The lawyer said the decision validated the NDC’s position that electoral processes in the constituency had been compromised by the actions of a key Electoral Commission official.

“For us, our case before the court was very simple. We had a rogue Electoral Commission district officer who abused their discretion,” he stated.

He noted that the irregularities, including the destruction of a biometric verification device, made a rerun the only acceptable remedy.

“The only alternative was to rerun the election, and we are very pleased that the court has ordered it to take place within 30 days. The power and sovereignty lie with the people,” he added.

The lawyer further argued that the New Patriotic Party (NPP) candidate could not legitimately claim the parliamentary seat under such circumstances. He explained that parliamentary candidates have the legal right to be present at the collation centre, request recounts, and challenge irregularities—rights that were violated when the collation centre was relocated without notifying the petitioner.

“You don’t relocate the district or redesignate the collation centre without informing the participating candidates. The failure to notify the petitioner meant he could not participate in the collation or exercise his rights,” he said.

He also dismissed claims that the petitioner caused disturbances during the election.

“When the district election officer was examined in court, he could not provide any evidence, not even video proof, that the petitioner had caused any disruption,” the lawyer noted.

“You cannot be the beneficiary of such irregularities and call yourself an MP. That is out of the question,” he insisted.

The ruling paves the way for a new parliamentary contest in Kpandai, with the NDC confident that the fresh election will restore the constituency’s true mandate.

ALSO READ:

• High Court orders fresh parliamentary election in Kpandai Constituency

• Kpandai seat was for NDC; court ruling has exposed ‘crooked electoral officers’ – Tanko…

The petition was filed by National Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate Daniel Nsala Wakpal, who claimed that the December 7, 2024, election was marred by serious irregularities.

He alleged inconsistencies in Form 8A (the “pink sheet”) from 41 out of 152 polling stations, arguing that these breaches violated Regulations 39 and 43 of the Public Elections Regulations (CI 127).

The court ruled that non-compliance with electoral regulations materially affected the integrity of the vote, and directed the Electoral Commission (EC) to conduct a rerun of the parliamentary election in the entire constituency.

The sitting Member of Parliament for Kpandai, Matthew Nyindam of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), had been declared the winner in the December vote.

Tensions had flared on election day at the collation centre amid allegations of vote-rigging by NDC supporters. Reports indicate that biometric verification devices (BVRs) were removed, ballots destroyed, and security forces deployed to manage the unrest.

In delivering his judgment, Justice Plange emphasised the need for the EC to restore public confidence by organising a transparent and credible re‑poll.

ALSO READ:

• Tension erupts at Kpandai collation center amid allegations of vote rigging [Video]
• Kpandai MP blames Bagbin for NPP’s election defeat

Out of 47 former executives, 37 publicly declared their intention to back Dr. Bawumia ahead of the 2026 presidential primaries.

Speaking on behalf of the group, a former Deputy Secretary, Benjamin Benson, expressed confidence in Dr. Bawumia’s leadership and vision for the country.

He noted that the former executives had carefully assessed the current political landscape and believed that rallying behind Dr. Bawumia was in the best interest of both the constituency and the nation.

“Those of us gathered here are former constituency executives, and we have decided to throw our support behind Dr. Bawumia to secure a massive victory in Mfantseman and ultimately across Ghana in 2028,” he said.

ALSO READ:

• Have confidence in me, I will bring ‘Abrokyire’ to Ghana – Bawumia

• Napo rallies NPP members to support Bawumia as best hope for victory

Speaking during the presentation of copies of the provisional register to aspirants, he said the committee had carefully reviewed all submissions but concluded that maintaining the restriction is essential to safeguarding the integrity and orderly conduct of the elections.

“We’ve read the petitions presented by sections of the party, and after listening to all that, we came to the conclusion that for the sake of conducting an election that is incident-free and credible, that provision should be maintained. We will still not have proxy voting in the 2026 presidential primaries,” he said.

The proxy ban, introduced earlier this year as part of the election guidelines, has drawn criticism from members abroad and students who argue that the rule disenfranchises committed party supporters unable to vote in person.

Petitioners had urged the committee to reconsider, insisting that the NPP’s expanding global membership should be reflected in its electoral processes. But the committee has remained firm on its position.

Osei Owusu stressed that in-person voting remains the most reliable method for a close and competitive contest, noting that it avoids logistical complications and strengthens public confidence in the final outcome.

ALSO READ:

• NPP primaries: Sweden Chair dismisses proxy-voting petition, warns of integrity risks

• NPP external branch delegates petition NEC over proxy voting ban

The document was officially handed over during a meeting chaired by the committee’s leader, Joseph Osei Owusu, who urged the aspirants to thoroughly review its contents and submit any concerns or corrections ahead of the polls.

Mr. Owusu stressed that the committee remains committed to ensuring a transparent and peaceful process as the party prepares for its January presidential primary. He noted that all aspirants were consulted before the decision to release the register was finalised.

Those present at the meeting included Kennedy Agyapong, Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, Ing. Kwabena Agyapong, and Lawyer Appiah Kubi, who represented Bryan Acheampong. Fred Oware also attended on behalf of former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.

The NPP is gearing up for a critical internal contest to elect a flagbearer for the 2028 general election. The poll, scheduled for January 31, 2026, will determine who leads the party following its defeat in the 2024 national elections.

The release of the provisional register marks an important step in the electoral process, giving aspirants the opportunity to verify the list of delegates who will vote in the primary.

According to the committee, the objective is to prevent disputes over voter data, build confidence in the system, and ensure a credible and orderly election.

ALSO READ:

• Kwabena Agyepong calls for national debate among NPP flagbearer candidates

• NPP didn’t listen enough – Napo

Speaking in an exclusive interview on JoyNews AM Show, Agyepong said, “And that’s why I have even challenged my other four colleagues that we should have a nationally public-sized debate. Ghanaians and our party people deserve to make an informed choice. That informed choice will be based on our policy differences, our priorities, our character, and our record. That should be scrutinised.”

He emphasised that leadership should go beyond popularity contests, highlighting the need for transformative ideas and a demonstrated willingness to deliver results.

“We need somebody who’s got transformative ideas, somebody who has shown that he’s prepared to work for results,” he added.

Agyepong’s call comes amid growing competition within the New Patriotic Party (NPP) as candidates campaign ahead of the party’s presidential primaries set to take place in January 2026.

He stressed that public scrutiny of candidates’ visions and character is essential for selecting the best leader to guide Ghana in the coming years.

ALSO READ:

• NPP race: I am vehemently against MPs openly declaring their support for aspirants –…

• NPP presidential aspirants to sign Peace Pact ahead of presidential primaries

Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, he admitted that the Akufo-Addo government failed to provide adequate attention and welfare support to the very officials who drove its work at the grassroots level.

“This neglect contributed to frustration and apathy among many MMDCEs across the country,” the former Deputy Health Minister said.

“I must admit the Akufo-Addo-led government did not take care of and treat our MMDCEs well. It is part of the reason there was apathy and anger among them because they are at the grassroots and help to support the people,” he added.

Acquah explained that salary cuts during the COVID-19 period and other fiscal challenges hit MMDCEs hard. Some officials were reportedly taking home as little as GH₵5,479 a month — an amount he says did not reflect the weight of their responsibilities.

“We did not increase their salaries. Their pay was deducted, and naturally some are still unhappy to this day,” he noted.

The Deputy Ranking Member on the Local Government and Rural Development Committee said the new Mahama administration is now addressing these welfare gaps by reviewing and increasing MMDCE salaries to match the demands of their work.

He stressed that for any government to succeed at the local level, the officials managing day-to-day governance must be treated fairly and adequately resourced — a lesson the country cannot afford to ignore.

ALSO READ:

• Pay us our end-of-service benefits or… – Former MMDCEs

• Former MMDCEs petition President Akufo-Addo over salary arrears

Speaking on JoyNews’ PM Express, he revealed that the period has been one of the most meaningful phases of his public life.

“In the last 10 months, I’ve been enjoying life,” he said, opening up about a rare stretch of calm after years of intense political work.

Host Evans Mensah pressed further, asking if he even had it in him to relax, to which Dr Opoku Prempeh responded with ease. “I have been reading and enjoying life, my brother.”

He said the break has allowed him to slow down and re-centre himself.

“I’ve been reflecting so much,” he explained. He described travelling across the country on a listening tour, reconnecting with people and grounding himself again.

“I’ve been going around the country on a listening tour. I’ve been reconnecting to my roots and establishing my foot firmly on the ground.”

The period, he noted, has been more than just rest. It has been a moment of introspection and clarity about the future.

“I’ve been mostly listening, reflecting, doing a soul search on what’s the purpose going forward.”

Despite his long years in frontline politics, Dr Opoku Prempeh said this break has given him a depth of stillness and perspective he has not had in a long time.

“So, it’s been the best time in the last probably 16 years,” he said.

ALSO READ:

• NPP Presidential race: I am not an ingrate – Napo reaffirms support for Bawumia…

• Dr. Opoku Prempeh questions Mahama’s job promise

According to him, the NPP under the Nana Akufo-Addo government simply did not listen enough.

The former Education and Energy Minister believes that failure cost the party the trust of the people, with severe consequences.

“One thing I’ve concluded in the last 10 months is that there was a broken trust between citizens and government. The trust that was broken hurt so much so that we saw the results so broken,” he said on Joy News’ PM Express.

Asked by host Evans Mensah what caused that rupture, Dr Opoku Prempeh was direct.

“We didn’t listen enough; we assumed a lot of things we shouldn’t have assumed,” he admitted.

He added that even their sense of purpose as a government came under strain.

Dr Prempeh argued that the global environment made the period even more difficult, saying the world had been shaken on multiple fronts.

“We had gone through the West, global economic climate, medically and economically or health-wise,” he said.

According to him, governments across the world were swept up in a storm, with many overturned, leaving only autocratic regimes able to withstand the shocks.

He highlighted how dramatically the global economy had shifted and pointed to staggering changes in basic costs.

“A container from China that cost $1,200 logistic-wise had risen to $14,000. People’s lifetime savings have been wiped out,” he said.

He added that the human toll was equally devastating.

“People had died in their droves that had never been seen before, without a military crisis or World War. So a lot of things that happened.”

Through it all, Dr Prempeh maintained that despite the difficult global context, their biggest failure was not listening to the public early enough — a failure he believes paved the way for everything that followed.

ALSO READ:

• NPP Presidential race: I am not an ingrate – Napo reaffirms support for Bawumia…

• Napo reveals shocking reason behind NPP’s 2024 election defeat

The petition, filed pursuant to Article 4 of the NPP Constitution, argues that the PEC’s announcement on November 6, 2025, is unconstitutional, exclusionary and threatens the rights of external-branch delegates who have historically voted by proxy in national executive and presidential elections.

Delegates Argue PEC Overstepped Its Mandate

According to the petitioners, the PEC lacks the constitutional authority to unilaterally prohibit proxy voting. They cite Article 13(2.6), which vests the power to set presidential election rules in the NEC, in consultation with the National Council. The external branches, which are represented on the National Council, contend that they were never consulted.

They describe the directive as ultra vires and therefore void, stressing that no ad-hoc committee should issue rules without satisfying constitutional requirements.

Disenfranchisement of External Delegates

The branches argue that the ban effectively disenfranchises all overseas delegates, who are constitutionally recognised under Article 8 but are unable to travel to Ghana to vote in person. The petition notes that the party has long relied on proxy voting to accommodate this reality.

They accuse the PEC of ignoring operational constraints, saying the removal of proxy voting “overlooks the nature and structure of external-branch participation” and denies them the practical ability to exercise their franchise.

Breach of Legitimate Expectation

The delegates further maintain that the ban violates the principle of legitimate expectation, since proxy voting has been a consistent feature in previous primaries and national executive elections. Abruptly abolishing it without justification, they argue, breaches fairness and natural-justice standards under Article 23 of the 1992 Constitution.

Contravention of Democratic Principles

They also describe the ban as arbitrary and undemocratic, asserting that it contradicts Article 55(5) of the 1992 Constitution and Section 9 of the Political Parties Act, which mandate democratic internal party processes. Excluding an entire category of accredited delegates, they say, is inconsistent with these requirements.

Ignored Proposal and High Cost Burden

The petition reveals that the External Branch Chairpersons’ Caucus submitted an alternative voting proposal to the PEC on November 3, 2025, offering practical and cost-effective options. The PEC, according to the petition, neither acknowledged nor discussed the proposal before announcing the ban.

Delegates say the decision forces them to bear an average cost of USD 3,000 each in travel and accommodation if they are to vote in person, an unfair burden that heavily disadvantages the party’s global membership.

“If Ghana Can Manage Proxy Voting, Why Not the NPP?”

The petitioners also draw comparisons to Ghana’s national electoral system, where proxy voting is well-regulated by the Electoral Commission despite handling millions of voters. They argue that if the EC can manage it, the NPP, known for its organisational strength, has no justification for dismantling an internal system that has worked for years.

They describe the ban as “a convenient or lazy approach” that raises questions about the party’s ability to police its own elections.

The external branches are therefore asking the NEC to declare the PEC’s directive null and void, for being unconstitutional and procedurally flawed and further reinstate proxy voting or adopt a practical alternative that allows external delegates to participate in the January 2026 presidential primary.

The NEC has yet to issue a public response to the petition.

He insists the petition is misleading, lacks legitimacy and does not reflect the collective position of the Party’s external branches.

The Sweden Branch Chair issued the caution in a detailed submission to the NEC, following the circulation of a petition purportedly endorsed by all 30 external branches of the Party. 

The petition challenges the PEC’s directive banning proxy voting in the January 31, 2026, presidential primary, which will elect a flagbearer from among the five approved aspirants: Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, Dr Bryan Acheampong, Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong and Kwabena Agyei Agyepong.

Mr Oti Aboagye said the petition “creates the false and misleading impression that all thirty external branches were present, represented, and in agreement,” emphasising that several branch chairpersons, including himself, did not participate in any meeting that endorsed the petition.

“Ignore the petition to restore proxy voting. It does not represent the views of the NPP Diaspora, and proxy voting poses genuine election integrity risks,” he stated.

The Sweden Chair argued that the PEC acted appropriately and within its constitutional mandate when it issued the directive.

He noted that the Presidential Elections Committee was set up by the National Council with full authority to design and implement operational rules for the primary, including measures to enhance transparency and prevent manipulation.

He further defended the PEC’s decision, stating that past elections had shown that proxy voting “opened loopholes in our internal processes,” creating verification challenges that could be exploited. Eliminating proxy voting, he said, is not only prudent but essential to ensuring a credible and dispute-free election.

Mr Oti Aboagye also criticised attempts to selectively challenge one electoral guideline while embracing others, warning that such behaviour threatens party cohesion in an election cycle where unity is critical. “Our responsibility as a Party is to defend institutional integrity, not undermine it. The PEC’s decision is a safeguard, not a threat,” he said.

He stressed that the petition’s circulation paints a false picture of division among diaspora branches, which he described as unhelpful at a time when the NPP is working to consolidate support ahead of the 2028 general elections.

The Sweden Chair reaffirmed the diaspora’s commitment to transparent internal elections, urging NEC to uphold the PEC’s authority and maintain close engagement with external branches. “We must model discipline, institutional respect, and faith in due process,” he noted.

ALSO READ:

• Bagbin slams NDC, NPP over democracy, patriotism weaknesses

• NPP’s misuse of tax revenue has shaken public confidence — Twum-Barimah

In a statement delivered on the floor of Parliament, Bagbin described the country’s political system as “toxic” in some aspects, contributing to governance challenges.

He noted that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) struggles with upholding democratic principles, while the New Patriotic Party (NPP) faces difficulties demonstrating genuine patriotism.

He urged both parties to reflect on these shortcomings and take steps to strengthen their core values.

As Ghana’s longest-serving Member of Parliament and a two-time Speaker, Bagbin emphasized his commitment to speaking truth to power to improve governance structures.

He also contrasted his leadership approach with that of Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, noting that Afenyo-Markin draws inspiration from him.

Bagbin pledged to continue efforts to enhance Parliament’s skills and capacity, aiming to cultivate a legislature capable of better serving the country.

ALSO READ:

• If I did what Bagbin did to Kufuor, they wouldn’t survive – Afenyo-Markin to…

• ‘Don’t think you’re a king or an emperor’ – Afenyo-Markin to speaker Bagbin

Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen show, Mr. Boamah said such conduct undermines party cohesion and the discipline the leadership is working to strengthen.

“I am a member of the disciplinary committee, and some of the cases we are handling involve referrals and petitions. How can I, as a member of the committee, openly campaign for a candidate? It doesn’t show leadership,” he said.

He observed that even when the party issues directives, some officers fail to comply, making it difficult to maintain discipline.

According to him, public declarations of support create unnecessary divisions within the party.

“It doesn’t sit well with the unity and discipline we are trying to build. Everyone has their preference, but leaders need to be very careful; the internet does not forget,” he cautioned.

Mr. Boamah urged MPs and party executives to be mindful of their public utterances during the flagbearer campaign, stressing that his priority is safeguarding unity within the party.

“In my constituency, anyone is free to support whoever they want to, but I am very careful about party unity,” he added.

READ ALSO:

• IHRC Senior Deputy Chair pays courtesy call on Chief Imam
• Aduana FC confirm death of two fans after severe accident, others in critical condition
• Prof. Frimpong-Boateng writes: Let’s save NPP

Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen show, the MP stressed that leadership decisions must align with the right timing and divine direction.

“God has His time for everything. I am qualified to run for the presidential primaries, but I feel there is time for everything,” he said.

Mr. Boamah noted that his immediate focus is helping to reorganize and strengthen the NPP as the party seeks to reposition itself with policies that can positively impact the country.

“We are working on fixing the party. We believe we have good policies that will help the country,” he stated.

He added that no firm decision has been made regarding calls for him to contest the flagbearership.

“At God’s appointed time, if it will happen, it will. It’s politics, so if God wants to lift you up, anything could happen,” he said.

READ ALSO:

• IHRC Senior Deputy Chair pays courtesy call on Chief Imam
• Aduana FC confirm death of two fans after severe accident, others in critical condition
• Prof. Frimpong-Boateng writes: Let’s save NPP

The NPP lost the last general election by a disgraceful margin, and instead of documenting and analysing the factors that led to that painful and disgraceful defeat, and taking remedial measures to prevent future disgrace, the National Executive, hiding behind a spineless National Executive Council (NEC) decided to hide a hastily prepared report from the Ghanaian public.

To add insult to injury, the National Executive again, hiding behind the spineless NEC, took a decision to abandon the time-tested and wise tradition of electing the flagbearer of the party for the next general election two years before the elections when the party is in opposition, and decided a top-down approach of conducting that election almost three years before the next general election.

The incompetent national executive members and their puppet masters that led the party to the abominable and disgraceful defeat are orchestrating these schemes just because they want their preferred candidate to be elected again, whether by fair or foul means, so that they would have a chance of being elected again to the National Executive Committee. Whom do the National Executive and the NEC think they are deceiving?

This top-down approach is the beginning of rigging and corruption of the electoral process. What follows a corrupt internal election is aggrieved NPP members and sympathisers not turning up to vote in a General Election as was witnessed in December 2024.

Do they think discerning NPP members, and for that matter Ghanaians, can’t see the schemes being hatched? Privately, and in some cases openly, people are talking against this pinnacle of corruption and it appears nothing can be done about it. Our fathers and mothers who fought for the independence of the country were not that docile. 

The last elections that elected Dr. Bawumia as flagbearer was conducted in a similar fashion, typical of recent NPP internal elections.

The whole of the Akufo-Addo government apparatus and the party machinery were mobilised to favour the election of Dr. Bawumia, the establishment candidate. Weak delegates had their arms twisted, corrupt ones were allegedly bribed, and the cowardly were intimidated to vote for Dr. Bawumia.

The backlash was the staying away of hundreds of thousands of NPP members from voting. Party apathy, coupled with blatant corruption, economic mismanagement, disregard of environmental degradation and “do-nothing” attitude towards pollution of water bodies, must have contributed to the loss of the elections in December 2024

Those who think the party belongs to them and therefore do whatever pleases them are at it again. They will stop at nothing in rigging the evil-intended January 2026 elections for Dr. Bawumia. One of the regional Chairpersons of the NPP shamelessly announced recently that they would do everything in their power to get Dr. Bawumia elected as the flagbearer. The NPP hierarchy and their puppet masters may shamelessly want to add manipulation of the election registers to other corrupt practices they seem to have perfected over the years to conduct the January 2026 one.

What do they take us for? Idiots? No. This fraud must be prevented. The theft must not be allowed to go on. Those who engineered the “top-down” scheme don’t want clean elections

I had always believed that in Ghana the NPP is the only major political party whose foundations are based on the principles of the rule of law, respect for the rights, opinions and dignity of the individual, fundamental human rights, pluralism and above all the separation of powers.

The NPP tradition, as far as I know, does not believe that political power should be entrusted into the hands of one individual or a group of individuals and their family and friends. 

It is pathetic that the Chairman of the Council of Elders has allowed the Party to come to this state. Having done a lot of good for the NPP in the past, it would be most unfortunate for the Chairman to end his political career with the NPP in this sorry state.

If I had my way, I would postpone the January 2026 flag-bearer elections and go back to the time-tested down to top approach. 

If the ill-conceived January 2026 election is allowed to go on, the NPP stands the risk of another flag-bearer race being supervised by the same biased party machinery which was mobilized to favour Dr. Bawumia, their preferred candidate. 

Allowing the January 2026 flagbearer election to be managed by an incompetent National Executive, and supervised by a toothless National Executive Council, removes any level playing field for the other candidates – it favours one candidate, the previously failed flag-bearer.  

We endured a variation of “family and friends’ government”, that controlled the press not through violence but through bribery and intimidation. We witnessed the weaponisation of state institutions that attempted to silence transformative voices while allowing patronised corruption to flourish. Instead of development in freedom, we witnessed unprecedented intimidation, economic retrogression, and widespread corruption.

The NPP and its government did not have the balls to curb illegal mining and its attendant destruction of the environment.

Now, the party in opposition does not have the moral courage to criticise the NDC that is neck-deep in galamsey, and has taken environmental destruction to a much higher level.

A resurgent NPP must have the courage to process all the above and in the end come out with people Ghanaians can trust to run the party and a future government. Instead, we are busy looking for problems when the solutions are staring us in the face.

My candid advice or suggestion is that the NPP must be watchful. Don’t fall for any diversionary tactics. Those who conceptualized and are rolling out the top-down election process will stop at nothing to rig the elections for Dr. Bawumia.

It appears Dr. Bawumia is enjoying being used to destroy the NPP. If he cannot read between the lines because of power, fame, and wealth then I want him to think carefully about his future and reputation.

However, if he is aware of the implications of his action, then I would like to call on the sane majority in the NPP to reject this top-down election purposely designed to elect Dr. Bawumia.

As reported by several news outlets and on social media, on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo hosted a breakfast meeting with the five presidential aspirants of the NPP at his private residence in Nima, Accra.

“The meeting was convened..…. to foster a spirit of camaraderie and unity ahead of the party’s presidential primaries scheduled for 31st January 2026, and to underscore the critical importance of a cohesive party for the 2028 general elections.”
 
The invitation by the former President gave an indication that he approves and supports the top-down election arrangement that has brought division and acrimony into the NPP.

I am of the strong opinion that anybody who supports such division has no business organising a breakfast or any other meeting to foster camaraderie or unity.

As a Ghanaian saying goes: “One cannot muddy the river upstream and then rush secretly downstream to complain that the river has become muddy and needs treatment”. Such behaviour is the hallmark of a traitor and nation wrecker.

My two questions to delegates are: Do we want those who when in government, neglected the grassroots, ruined the economy of Ghana, and also adopted a lukewarm attitude towards the environment and its biodiversity to be in charge of the NPP again going into the General Elections in December 2028?

Do we want an all-inclusive NPP or one that is controlled by people, including an arrogant “Prime Minister”, a declared fugitive, and their other “Nouveau Riche” family members and friends to continue to control the Party post January 2026? Niemals!