Chairman Bernard Antwi‑Boasiako, widely known as Chairman Wontumi, has formally thrown his hat into the ring to become the next National Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), setting the stage for a potentially defining internal contest ahead of the 2028 general elections.
Wontumi, a polarising figure in Ghanaian politics and a prominent grassroots mobiliser for the NPP, announced his intention this week in a broadly circulated declaration and reinforced it in public comments, emphasising unity, courage and a return to strong party organisation as central to his campaign. His bid comes at a time when the party is still recovering from its defeat in the 2024 general elections and seeks to rebuild ahead of future polls.
In his declaration, Wontumi framed his candidacy as a mission to strengthen and “unify our great party,” stressing that leadership now requires bravery and an unwavering commitment to grassroots engagement. The announcement was couched in a message of collective renewal, pitching his leadership as necessary to restore confidence inside the party and position the NPP for a decisive victory in 2028.
Wontumi’s campaign narrative leans heavily on his record as Ashanti Regional Chairman, where he has been credited with maintaining the party’s presence and holding key seats even when national performance lagged. He has argued that his stewardship through recent political upheavals qualifies him for national organisational leadership.
However, observers note that his bid unfolds amid ongoing legal battles. Wontumi is currently facing multiple charges related to alleged illegal mining operations at his Samreboi concession, with proceedings ongoing at the High Court in Accra. The trial, which began in January, has seen witness testimony and legal objections, and Wontumi remains on bail under strict reporting conditions.
The legal clouds have not dampened his political enthusiasm. In social media posts and statements to supporters, he has insisted his legal issues will not distract him from party unity, portraying his campaign as rooted in deep loyalty to the NPP’s grassroots and its future success.
Wontumi is not alone in eyeing the NPP’s top organisational post. Party insiders have indicated that several figures, including former General Secretary John Boadu and others, have also declared or are preparing bids, signalling a competitive race for delegates’ support at the next delegates’ conference.
His declaration follows closely on the heels of internal shifts at the NPP. Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the party’s flagbearer for the 2028 elections, has pledged inclusive leadership aimed at healing fractures exposed in the party’s recent primary contest, where he secured a clear majority. Such assurances underscore the broader context in which the national chairman race is taking place, one where unity and strategic cohesion are high priorities.
As the NPP navigates legal controversy, leadership ambition and organisational renewal, Wontumi’s bid to ascend to the national chairmanship adds a new layer to internal party dynamics ahead of a critical electoral cycle. Delegates and party stakeholders will soon determine whether his grassroots credentials and combative style align with the direction the NPP seeks to take in the years ahead.
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