Former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo Addo has expressed strong confidence that the New Patriotic Party will return to power in the 2028 general elections under the leadership of Dr Mahamudu Bawumia. His remarks followed a courtesy call by the newly elected flagbearer of the party and his wife, Hajia Samira Bawumia, at his residence on February 3, 2026.
In a message reflecting on the visit, the former president described the meeting as warm and meaningful, noting that it symbolized continuity, loyalty, and shared commitment to the ideals of the NPP. He said the visit came at an important moment for the party as it regroups after the 2024 elections and begins preparations for the next electoral contest.
“Eighteen years ago, I chose Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia as my running mate. We stood side by side through four elections. I know his mind, his character, his love for Ghana, and his appetite for hard work. He is loyal to the party and the country.”
former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, and former Vice President and NPP 2028 flagbearer, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia
In his assessment, these qualities place Dr Bawumia in a strong position to lead the party effectively as it looks toward 2028. Former President Akufo-Addo also highlighted loyalty as a defining trait of the NPP flagbearer.
He said Dr Bawumia has consistently demonstrated fidelity both to the party and to the country, even during challenging moments. This sense of loyalty, he suggested, has earned Dr Bawumia the respect of party members across the country and strengthened his standing within the broader political landscape.
The former president expressed optimism that with the backing of party members at all levels, as well as the continued support of sympathizers and donors, the NPP could rebuild momentum and reclaim power.
Opportunity for Renewal and Reconnection with Voters
He stressed that electoral victory would depend not only on leadership at the top but also on unity, discipline, and active engagement by the party’s grassroots base. According to former President Akufo-Addo, the emergence of Dr Bawumia as flagbearer presents the NPP with an opportunity to renew its message and reconnect with voters.
He suggested that the party’s return to government would require a clear vision, effective organization, and sustained outreach to Ghanaians across the country. In this context, he said he believed Dr Bawumia had the capacity and determination to carry that responsibility.
The courtesy call by Dr and Mrs Bawumia was also seen as a gesture of respect and continuity within the party’s leadership tradition. Hajia Samira Bawumia, who has played an active public role over the years, joined her husband in the visit, underscoring the personal and political bonds that have linked the families over time.
Dr Bawumia was recently elected as the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party, positioning him as the leader of the opposition as Ghana moves toward the next election cycle. His selection has been welcomed by supporters who see him as a familiar figure with experience in government, having served as Vice President for two terms.
Confidence in Bawumia’s Leadership
For them, the endorsement by Nana Akufo Addo adds moral weight to his candidacy and reinforces confidence in his leadership. While the road to 2028 is expected to be demanding, Former President Akufo-Addo’s message was one of reassurance and belief in the party’s future.
He indicated that political setbacks are part of democratic competition and that what matters most is the ability to learn, reorganize, and present a compelling alternative to the electorate.
In his view, Dr Bawumia embodies those qualities at this stage of the party’s journey. As the NPP begins its reorganization efforts, the former president’s endorsement is likely to resonate with party faithful and shape internal conversations about strategy and unity.
For Dr Bawumia, the public vote of confidence serves as both encouragement and a reminder of the expectations placed on his leadership as the party works toward reclaiming power in 2028.
