By: Kenneth Appiah Bani
Former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has expressed deep disappointment over comments made by Asante Akim South Member of Parliament, Kwaku Asante Boateng, who recently described him as a “stranger” within the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and questioned his suitability to lead the party as flagbearer.
Addressing party members during his tour of the Oti Region on Sunday, Dr. Bawumia said such remarks were not only divisive but also contrary to the founding principles and unifying traditions of the NPP.
“Today, some of my opponents say I am an outsider and a stranger who does not deserve to lead the party because of where I come from. This is dangerous, divisive, and contrary to the diversity of our unifying tradition,” he stated.
The comments by Hon. Kwaku Asante Boateng have sparked widespread criticism from within the NPP, including the party’s national secretariat, the Ashanti Regional Parliamentary Caucus, and several party-affiliated groups. The controversy highlights growing internal tensions as the party prepares for its next flagbearer contest ahead of the 2028 general elections.
Dr. Bawumia reminded members of the NPP’s historical roots in the United Party (UP), a political movement that brought together people from diverse ethnic, regional, and religious backgrounds across Ghana.
“Those who say this don’t understand our history,” he explained. “Our tradition is the Danquah-Dombo-Busia tradition, formed by all the main tribes across Ghana. This is the tradition of the NPP.”
Reflecting on his own long-standing service to the party, Dr. Bawumia recounted his extensive contributions over the years serving four times as running mate, two terms as Vice President, and playing key roles in campaigns, lectures, and legal proceedings at the Supreme Court.
He emphasized that commitment and service, not tribal background should determine one’s ability to lead.
“If Dr. Bawumia, after 17 years of service to the party, is described as an outsider and stranger, how do we grow the party to attract new members from all parts of Ghana?” he questioned.
The former Vice President urged NPP members to reject tribal and divisive politics, stressing that unity and inclusiveness are vital to the party’s strength and future.
“Any member from any part of the country can lead the party if you are capable,” he said. “It does not matter where you are from Dagomba, Ga, Dangbe, Sefwi, Ewe, Dagarti, Wala, Bono, Asante, Akyem, Kwahu, Mamprusi, Kusasi, Konkomba, Fante, Frafra, Guan, Gonja, Sisala, Kasena, Kotokoli, Bimoba, or Chakosi.”
As the NPP gears up for its 2026 flagbearer selection, Dr. Bawumia’s message serves as a strong call for unity, respect, and inclusiveness values he says are at the heart of the party’s heritage and essential for its continued success.
