Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party Bernard Antwi Boasiako, widely known as Chairman Wontumi, has formally declared his intention to contest for the position of National Chairman of the party.
The declaration, dated February 4, 2026, comes at a time when the opposition NPP is reflecting on recent challenges and preparing for the 2028 general elections. In a statement announcing his decision, Chairman Wontumi said the party was at a critical juncture that required leadership marked by steadiness, principle, and a strong commitment to unity.
He acknowledged that the NPP had faced significant difficulties in recent years and had been forced to learn what he described as hard lessons. According to him, these experiences have made it clear that the party must regroup under leadership that can bring members together across all levels.
Chairman Wontumi portrayed his leadership vision as one rooted in the grassroots of the party. He emphasized the importance of valuing every segment of the NPP, from founding elders to youth activists, and described the ideal leader as one who is willing to make profound personal sacrifices in the interest of the party.
“The road ahead will demand vision, courage, and unwavering determination. Leadership at this moment requires bravery-the courage to stand firm, make difficult decisions, and be willing to lose everything if necessary for the NPP.”
Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party Bernard Antwi Boasiako
He said his motivation was not personal ambition but a desire to strengthen, rebuild, and unify the NPP ahead of future electoral contests. He framed the bid as a response to what he believes is a pressing need for courageous leadership capable of steering the party through a demanding phase.
NPP Future Demands Clear Vision
According to him, the immediate future of the NPP will demand clear vision, resilience, and determination. He argued that leadership at this moment calls for bravery, defined not only by the ability to take firm decisions but also by the readiness to endure personal loss if it ultimately serves the interests of the party.
He maintained that such resolve would be necessary if the NPP is to regain public confidence and present itself as a credible alternative in national governance. Chairman Wontumi expressed confidence in the party’s preparedness, stating that the NPP was ready, organized, and equipped for the political contest ahead.
He said his leadership would focus on empowering grassroots structures, rebuilding internal trust, and positioning the party for a decisive victory in the 2028 elections. In his message, he described the current moment as an opportunity for renewal and collective action within the party.
He concluded his declaration with a call for unity and faith, offering blessings for the party, Ghana’s democracy, and the nation as a whole. The statement was signed in his capacity as Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party, a position he has held for several years and from which he has built a reputation as a vocal and influential figure within the NPP.
Chairman Wontumi is a known supporter of former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, who is the newly elected flagbearer of the NPP. His declaration is therefore expected to influence internal party dynamics as the opposition reorganizes following the 2024 elections lost.
Supporters view his grassroots appeal and assertive style as assets, while critics often point to controversies surrounding his public profile. Beyond internal party politics, Chairman Wontumi’s bid comes against the backdrop of ongoing legal challenges. He is currently standing trial at the Accra High Court over allegations related to illegal mining activities.
The case involves six criminal charges, including the alleged assignment of mineral rights without proper authorization and the facilitation of unlicensed mining operations. These charges are linked to activities at a concession in Samreboi in the Western Region, associated with his company, Akonta Mining Limited.
In addition to the mining case, the Office of the Attorney General is investigating Chairman Wontumi over alleged fraud, money laundering, and causing financial loss to the state.
The investigation centers on a GH¢24 million loan from the Ghana Exim Bank, which was reportedly intended for a farming project that authorities claim did not materialize. Chairman Wontumi has denied wrongdoing and has also filed a defamation suit against the Minerals Commission and the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources.
As the NPP moves toward internal elections, Chairman Wontumi’s declaration sets the stage for what is expected to be a closely watched contest. His candidacy highlights broader questions about leadership, unity, and public perception as the party seeks to reposition itself ahead of the next national polls.
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