Many Ghanaians, including fellow presidential aspirants and their supporters, doubted that Dr Mahamudu Bawumia could bridge the divides within the New Patriotic Party (NPP) ahead of the 2028 elections. Scepticism stemmed from past criticisms and sharp exchanges, *bullets*, as some described them, from certain party elders during his time as Vice President. Critics believed these lingering tensions would prevent him from fostering genuine unity.
Yet, following his decisive victory in the keenly contested NPP presidential primaries on January 31, 2026, where he secured 56.48% of the votes, Dr Bawumia has swiftly demonstrated otherwise. In recent weeks, he has taken deliberate, inclusive steps to bring all factions on board, proving his critics wrong and showcasing a leadership style rooted in maturity, reconciliation, and forward-thinking vision.
Notable among these efforts are recent meetings and photographs with prominent figures who had previously been vocal critics of the Nana Akufo-Addo administration and, at times, of Dr Bawumia himself. These include Dr Arthur Kennedy, a well-known political commentator and former aspirant; former Chief of Staff Kojo Mpiani; and former National Chairman Paul Afoko. Their courtesy visits and public engagements with the new flagbearer signal a willingness to move beyond past differences for the greater good of the party.
Dr Bawumia deserves applause for these hands-on initiatives aimed at healing wounds and building a cohesive front. Rather than dwelling on historical grievances, he is prioritising practical solutions and collective strength. Some voices within the party have labelled these outreach efforts as a betrayal of loyalty to his former boss, arguing that associating with ardent critics undermines past leadership.
However, such criticisms miss the bigger picture: Dr Bawumia’s name and face will be on the 2028 ballot. As the flagbearer, he bears the ultimate responsibility for the party’s success. Undermining his strategic moves to unite the rank and file would be unfair and counterproductive to the NPP’s shared goal of reclaiming power.
This unifying approach extends to the grassroots level. In the Dome-Kwabenya Constituency, for instance, two key figures, Hon. Sarah Adwoa Safo and former Ghana High Commissioner to India, Lawyer Mike Oquaye Jnr., who had been at loggerheads over the parliamentary seat race, were recently seen together in a show of solidarity. Both have publicly committed to reconciling and working jointly to deliver victory for Dr Bawumia in 2028, highlighting how his leadership is inspiring reconciliation even in contentious local strongholds.
Drawing on the vast experience he has garnered, as a former Vice President who navigated national governance, economic policy, and party dynamics, Dr Bawumia is doing things differently. He is not repeating old patterns of division but instead forging a renewed, inclusive NPP that learns from the past to secure a stronger future. His current path clearly positions him as a leader focused on results: a united party capable of delivering victory in 2028.
Dr Bawumia’s actions reflect wisdom, resilience, and a genuine commitment to putting the NPP and Ghana first. With unity as his guiding principle, the party stands poised for renewal and triumph under his stewardship.
Written by
Adjei Worlanyo Frank
