Introduction

As the New Patriotic Party (NPP) approaches its critical internal primary scheduled for January 31, 2026, the race to select a flagbearer for the 2028 general election is intensifying. With only weeks remaining before delegates cast their votes, the political atmosphere is charged with debates on ideology, strategy, and party loyalty.

Recently, Dr. Bryan Acheampong, the Member of Parliament for Abetifi, has ignited a significant discourse on political humility and divine will. During a campaign tour in the Greater Accra Region, Dr. Acheampong publicly chided his fellow contender, Kennedy Agyapong, for his refusal to commit to supporting the party’s eventual winner. This article provides a comprehensive analysis of these events, the background of the NPP’s rebuilding phase, and the strategic implications of these statements.

Key Points

Background

To understand the weight of Dr. Acheampong’s comments, one must look at the current state of the New Patriotic Party. Following the 2024 general election, the NPP experienced a significant political shift. Transitioning from the ruling government to the minority in Parliament—holding 87 seats against the National Democratic Congress’s (NDC) 185 seats—marked a pivotal moment of introspection for the party.

The 2026 Primaries as a Roadmap

The 2026 internal primaries are not merely about selecting a leader; they are viewed as the first step in a comprehensive roadmap designed to reclaim the presidency in 2028. The party leadership and delegates are keenly aware that internal division could hand a decisive advantage to the opposition NDC.

The Greater Accra Battleground

The Greater Accra Region holds a critical mass of the over 200,000 delegates eligible to vote on January 31. Historically an NPP stronghold, the region saw narrowed margins in the previous national election. Dr. Acheampong’s strategic visits to Trobu and Amasaman highlight the urgency of consolidating support in areas where the party’s grip may be loosening.

Analysis

Dr. Bryan Acheampong’s remarks in Amasaman represent a calculated political maneuver. By addressing the issue of loyalty head-on, he is positioning himself as the “unity candidate” amidst a field of contenders.

The Concept of Political Humility

Acheampong’s assertion that the party’s return to power relies on the “humility of its leaders to accept defeat” is a direct challenge to the “winner-takes-all” mentality often seen in internal politics. By contrasting his stance with Kennedy Agyapong’s refusal to commit to support a rival, Acheampong appeals to delegates who prioritize party cohesion over individual ambition.

Framing Loss as Divine Intervention

Perhaps the most philosophical element of his speech was the redefinition of loss. Acheampong suggested that losing an election could be a form of divine protection. “He may be saving you from what is ahead of you,” he stated. This rhetoric serves a dual purpose:

1. It softens the blow of potential defeat: By framing loss as a divine will, he reduces the stigma associated with dropping out of the race.
2. It signals confidence: It implies that the speaker is mentally prepared for all outcomes and prioritizes the greater good of the NPP over personal ambition.

Critique of Rival Strategy

By highlighting Kennedy Agyapong’s silence on the TV station, Acheampong subtly questions his opponent’s reliability. In a political climate where “cross-carpeting” (defecting to another party) is a genuine fear, Acheampong is reassuring delegates that he represents a stable, committed option.

Practical Advice

For political analysts, delegates, and voters following the NPP race, navigating the final weeks requires a focus on specific indicators.

How to Evaluate Candidates

When assessing the remaining candidates, consider the following criteria:

• Commitment to Party Unity: Look for candidates who explicitly state their willingness to support the eventual winner. Acheampong’s stance suggests that unity is a non-negotiable metric for leadership.
• Regional Strategy: Analyze how candidates perform in historically strong but shifting regions like Greater Accra. Candidates must demonstrate the ability to regain lost margins.
• Rhetoric vs. Action: Distinguish between campaign promises and actual political history. Examine past voting records and parliamentary performance.

Understanding the Delegates’ Power

With over 200,000 delegates voting, the primary is a test of grassroots mobilization. Voters should monitor how candidates engage with constituency executives in areas like Obom and Trobu, as these micro-interactions often predict macro-outcomes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Who is Dr. Bryan Acheampong?

Dr. Bryan Acheampong is a Member of Parliament for the Abetifi constituency in the Eastern Region of Ghana. He is a former Minister for Food and Agriculture and is currently seeking the flagbearer ticket for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) for the 2028 general election.

What is the significance of the January 31, 2026 date?

January 31, 2026, is the scheduled date for the NPP’s internal primaries to elect the party’s flagbearer for the 2028 presidential election. This date is crucial as it sets the tone for the party’s campaign strategy and unity leading up to the general election.

Why is the Greater Accra Region important in this race?

Greater Accra is a key political battleground with a large delegate population (over 200,000). Historically an NPP stronghold, the region saw reduced margins in the 2024 election, making it essential for candidates to secure a strong base there to win the flagbearer position.

What was Kennedy Agyapong’s response?

According to Dr. Acheampong, Kennedy Acheampong, during a television appearance, refused to answer whether he would support the eventual winner of the NPP primary if he were to lose. This silence prompted Acheampong’s public critique regarding party loyalty.

What is the current status of the NPP in Parliament?

Following the 2024 general election, the NPP transitioned to the minority in Parliament, holding 87 seats compared to the NDC’s 185 seats. This has necessitated a period of rebuilding and strategic realignment for the party.

Conclusion

The comments made by Dr. Bryan Acheampong in Amasaman serve as a microcosm of the broader dynamics at play within the New Patriotic Party. As the January 31 primary approaches, the tension between individual ambition and collective party interest is palpable. Acheampong’s critique of Kennedy Agyapong is not merely a personal jab but a strategic move to appeal to delegates who are anxious about the party’s future.

By emphasizing humility, divine will, and unwavering loyalty to the NPP, Dr. Acheampong is attempting to distinguish himself as the candidate capable of uniting a fractured base. For the NPP, the path to 2028 relies heavily on the ability of its leaders to navigate these internal conflicts with grace and a shared vision for governance.