A lecturer at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), Dr Kwabena Bomfeh Jnr, has cautioned that Dr Mahamudu Bawumia’s chances in the 2028 general elections will depend not only on his personal qualities, but also on how attractive and united the New Patriotic Party (NPP) appears to voters.
In an interview, Dr Bomfeh used a metaphor to explain the challenge facing the newly elected flagbearer.
“I’d only say that you see, the flagbearer is a bearer of a flag. No matter how good, competent, suitable, perfect the bearer would be, if the flag is unattractive, you will have a problem,” he said.
He believes that in order to show unity ahead of the 2028 elections, Dr. Bawumia must concentrate on strengthening the party’s internal weakness. “Definitely, that flag has issues. It has punches; they need to fix them. It needs to reorganise itself,” Dr Bomfeh added.
He emphasised that the NPP needs to put in a lot of effort to rebuild relationships with Ghanaians and address issues that impact their day-to-day lives, going beyond policy pledges.
“Bawumia should be able to be seen, not only do, but be seen to be doing what will rally them around a united flag… and reposition the party as one that understands the issues people are grappling with and offers solutions,” he said.
Following Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s victory in the NPP’s presidential primary on saturday, January 31st 2026, Dr Bomfeh made his remark.
According to the official figures collected by the Electoral Commission, the formal vice president secured a resounding majority of the 195,901 valid votes cast nationwide with 110,643 votes. Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, his closest opponent, came in second with 46,554 votes, followed by Dr. Bryan Acheampong with 36,303.
In all, 196,462 votes were cast, with 561 ballots rejected.
Dr Bawumia’s victory officially makes him the NPP’s candidate for the 2028 presidential election, as the party seeks to retain power after two consecutive terms in government. Dr Bomfeh noted that while Dr Bawumia brings experience and competence to the table, rebuilding public confidence in the party remains critical.
“The message and the messenger must align,” he said, emphasising the need for consistency between the party’s promises and its actions
