Former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo‑Addo has sparked controversy within the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) after privately lobbying delegates in favor of Vice-President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia and urging them not to support MP Kennedy Agyapong in the party’s upcoming presidential primaries. While these discussions were not made public, reports of the meetings have leaked, fueling confusion and division within the party.
Private Lobbying Sparks Confusion and Division
Sources familiar with the meetings said Akufo‑Addo held private sessions with key delegates, emphasizing Bawumia’s achievements and leadership credentials while cautioning against voting for Kennedy Agyapong. These private interventions have caused a stir, as many party members view them as unusual and potentially interfering in what is expected to be a free and fair delegate process.
The revelations have prompted both support and criticism. Bawumia’s backers welcomed the subtle endorsement, while Agyapong’s supporters argue that such private lobbying sows confusion and mistrust among delegates.
NPP Presidential Election Set for January 31, 2026
The NPP presidential primaries are scheduled for Saturday, January 31, 2026, with delegates across the country set to vote for their preferred candidate. The contest has attracted a competitive field, including:
Kennedy Agyapong – MP and outspoken political figure
Bryan Acheampong – Former minister and party stalwart
Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia – Current Vice-President and Akufo‑Addo’s favored candidate
Yaw Osei Adutwum – Education Minister and experienced technocrat
Kwabena Agyapong – Former NPP Secretary and policy expert
Criticism of Kennedy Agyapong: Supporter Arguments, Not Established Facts
According to sources, Akufo‑Addo’s private lobbying referenced concerns circulating among party members about Kennedy Agyapong’s suitability as a presidential candidate, including:
Agyapong’s public rhetoric is polarizing, which some say could divide the party.
His confrontational style in interviews and on social media may undermine disciplined party messaging.
Some delegates question whether his leadership approach would appeal to centrist and undecided voters in a general election.
These points reflect political arguments and criticisms circulating within party factions, not verified judgments. Agyapong’s supporters reject these claims as politically motivated.
Backlash from Agyapong Camp and Party Members
Leaked reports of Akufo‑Addo’s private lobbying prompted immediate backlash from Agyapong’s camp. Campaign leaders are criticizing the former president for interfering behind the scenes, arguing that delegates should exercise independent judgment. One senior party figure commented, “No one person—regardless of stature—should be privately directing delegates on how to vote.”
Analysts Warn of Deepening Factionalism
Political analysts say this episode underscores broader tensions in the NPP as it navigates competing leadership visions. Bawumia represents continuity with the party’s economic agenda, while Agyapong is seen by his supporters as a more outspoken, populist alternative. Analysts warn that private lobbying like Akufo‑Addo’s could fragment the party base ahead of the competitive presidential vote.
What Comes Next
With the NPP presidential primaries set for January 31, 2026, all eyes are on the delegates. Both camps are intensifying efforts to win support at the grassroots level. The controversy over Akufo‑Addo’s private interventions is expected to remain a focal point of debate within the party, highlighting tensions between party unity and the influence of senior figures.
