Dr. Hayford Ayerakwa, a Senior Lecturer at the University of Ghana and member of the policy think tank, Africa Policy Lens, has stated that there is a strong internal preference within the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to retain Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia as its flagbearer for the 2028 elections.
Speaking to ABC News Gh, Dr. Ayerakwa explained that the latest Africa Policy Lens survey reflects this trend, attributing it to Bawumia’s unmatched contribution to the party’s 2024 campaign despite limited support from other senior party members.
“He stands so tall as one person who they believe contributed so much,” he emphasized, pointing to perceived disunity within the party’s ranks at the time.
The survey, which shows Bawumia securing 70.6% support among NPP supporters compared to Kennedy Agyapong’s 21.4%, also revealed surprising cross-party dynamics.
A significant 48.4% of NDC supporters indicated a preference for Kennedy Agyapong as the NPP’s 2028 candidate, while 35.3% leaned toward Bawumia.
Dr. Ayerakwa noted that while Agyapong enjoys broad public attention, Bawumia’s internal dominance is grounded in his proven leadership and electoral appeal, particularly in the northern regions.
Dr. Ayerakwa stressed that the survey was conducted independently, without political influence or bias.
“This survey reflects the real thoughts of the people. We took submissions regardless of political affiliation,” he stated.
As the various candidates begin to position themselves for 2028, the survey’s findings highlight a potential test of unity and strategy within the NPP, with Bawumia seen as the candidate to beat — if the party can rally behind him effectively.
