The Member of Parliament for Akyem Swedru and Chairman of the Eastern Regional NPP Parliamentary Caucus, Hon. Kennedy Osei Nyarko, has announced that he will remain neutral in the lead-up to the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) presidential primaries scheduled for January 31, 2026.
In a statement released to clarify his position amid swirling rumors of his alleged endorsement of a particular candidate, the seasoned legislator emphasized that his neutrality is borne out of deep respect and longstanding relationships with all three prominent contenders in the upcoming primaries — Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Hon. Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, and Dr. Bryan Acheampong.
“Out of respect, I have decided to stay NEUTRAL as we begin campaigns for our Presidential Primaries scheduled for 31st January 2026.”
Member of Parliament for Akyem Swedru, Hon. Kennedy Osei Nyarko
He was quick to explain that his decision is not one of disinterest, but rather a deliberate choice made in the spirit of party unity, given his personal and professional relationships with the three leading aspirants.
According to him, former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia is “a big brother and friend” with whom he has worked closely over the years. “We have worked very well together,” he said, adding that he holds strong confidence in Dr. Bawumia’s ability to lead. “I believe that with his vast experience, he will do a good job if the party gives him the nod,” he stated.
On Hon. Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, the former Assin Central MP, Hon. Osei Nyarko described him as a “former senior colleague” and “a well-respected member of our party.”
According to him, his association with the former Assin Central MP dates back to their time in the United States, and he praised Agyapong’s unwavering dedication to the party’s growth. “His support to see our party grow over the years is admirable and cannot be underestimated,” he remarked.
Hon. Osei Nyarko also expressed deep admiration for Dr. Bryan Acheampong, describing him as “a personal and very close friend” with whom he shares “a common political vision.”
He noted that Hon. Bryan Acheampong has played a significant role in his own political journey. “He’s my go-to person and has always supported my political career,” the Akyem Swedru MP said.
Highlighting the Eastern Region’s pride in having Dr. Bryan Acheampong as one of the contenders, Hon. Osei Nyarko noted that “as a senior member of Parliament and chairman of the Eastern NPP MP’s Caucus, it will be a great legacy to see one of my key members win the nod and eventually become president in 2029 for our great party.”
In the face of recent reports and social media commentary suggesting his endorsement of a particular candidate, Kennedy Osei Nyarko was categorical in his response: “Please ignore any news that suggests that I have endorsed a particular candidate.”
He went on to commend all three individuals, saying that regardless of who wins the NPP flagbearership, the party will be in a solid position to challenge the opposition and deliver on its mandate to Ghanaians.
To Hon. Kennedy Osei Nyarko, unity is the most important ingredient as the party heads into another potentially competitive internal contest.
He emphasized the need for mutual respect among all factions, and urged party members to be mindful of their conduct. “Uniting for that purpose is KEY, and how we handle and relate to each of these noble personalities of our great party is critical,” he stressed.
As someone holding a key leadership role within the party in the Eastern Region, Hon. Osei Nyarko’s message of neutrality is likely to resonate with a significant number of party faithful who are torn between loyalty and the need to preserve party cohesion ahead of the 2026 primaries.
His approach may also serve as a model for other influential figures in the NPP who are looking for a middle path to manage relationships across the party’s diverse interest groups. He concluded his statement with a simple but powerful benediction: “May God bless the NPP.”
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