Bawumia’s operating mate communicate untimely – Abu Jinapor urges NPP to concentrate on rebuilding celebration – Life Pulse Daily
Editor-in-chiefFebruary 4, 20263 Mins read42
Bawumia’s Running Mate Decision Sparks Debate – Abu Jinapor Urges NPP to Focus on Rebuilding Party
Introduction
The New Patriotic Party (NPP) is facing internal discussions about its strategy for the 2028 general elections, particularly regarding whether Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia should immediately name a running mate. Samuel Abu Jinapor, a prominent NPP figure and former Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, has weighed in on the debate, cautioning against premature decisions and urging the party to prioritize rebuilding efforts. This article explores the key points of this developing political conversation and its implications for the NPP’s future.
Key Points
- Samuel Abu Jinapor warns that calls for Bawumia to immediately name a running mate are "untimely"
- The NPP should focus on rebuilding and restructuring the party before the 2028 elections
- The selection of a vice-presidential candidate is the sole prerogative of the presidential candidate
- Naming a running mate too early could put the NPP at a strategic disadvantage
- The party must first ensure its internal structures are strong and united
Background
The debate over Bawumia’s potential running mate emerged shortly after the NPP’s recent presidential primary. As the party’s flagbearer for the 2028 elections, Dr. Bawumia faces pressure from various quarters to announce his vice-presidential choice. However, this pressure has met resistance from senior party members who believe the timing is premature and could distract from more pressing organizational needs.
Samuel Abu Jinapor, who serves as the Member of Parliament for Damongo and previously held the Lands and Natural Resources portfolio, has emerged as a voice of caution in this discussion. His perspective carries weight given his position within the party and his experience in government.
Analysis
The Constitutional Framework
Jinapor’s comments highlight important constitutional considerations regarding the selection of a running mate. According to him, while the Constitution requires consultation with the National Council, the Supreme Court has clarified what constitutes appropriate consultation. This legal framework gives the presidential candidate significant autonomy in making the final decision.
Strategic Timing Considerations
The timing argument presented by Jinapor is particularly noteworthy. He questions why the NPP would rush to complete its ticket before the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) has even selected its presidential candidate. This strategic perspective treats the selection of a running mate as a tactical decision that should be informed by the opposition’s choices.
Party Rebuilding as Priority
Perhaps most significantly, Jinapor frames the discussion within the broader context of party rebuilding. He uses the metaphor of ensuring the “horse” (the party machinery) is “fit for purpose, healed, and united” before the 2028 race. This suggests that internal party cohesion and organizational strength should take precedence over premature tactical decisions.
Practical Advice
For political parties facing similar situations, several lessons emerge from this debate:
1. **Prioritize internal unity**: Before making high-profile announcements, ensure party structures are cohesive and conflicts are resolved.
2. **Consider strategic timing**: The announcement of key positions should be timed to maximize political advantage rather than rushed to satisfy external pressure.
3. **Follow constitutional processes**: While the presidential candidate has significant discretion, adhering to constitutional requirements for consultation maintains legitimacy.
4. **Focus on rebuilding**: After electoral setbacks, parties should prioritize organizational strengthening over premature tactical decisions.
5. **Learn from opposition moves**: Strategic decisions like selecting a running mate can be more effective when informed by the opposition’s choices.
FAQ
**Q: Why is Samuel Abu Jinapor against Bawumia naming a running mate now?**
A: Jinapor believes it’s premature and that the party should focus on rebuilding and restructuring before making such decisions. He also argues that naming a running mate too early could put the NPP at a strategic disadvantage.
**Q: Who has the authority to select a running mate in Ghana’s political system?**
A: According to Jinapor, the selection of a running mate is the sole prerogative of the presidential candidate, though consultation with the National Council is constitutionally required.
**Q: What does Jinapor suggest the NPP should focus on instead?**
A: He recommends that the party concentrate on rebuilding its structures, supporting the candidate to lead necessary reforms, and developing strategies to make the NPP competitive in 2028.
**Q: How might naming a running mate too early be strategically disadvantageous?**
A: Jinapor suggests that the choice of running mate should complement the presidential candidate and be informed partly by who the opposition selects as their candidate. Announcing too early could limit strategic flexibility.
Conclusion
The debate over Bawumia’s running mate selection highlights important tensions within the NPP as it prepares for the 2028 elections. While some pressure exists for immediate decisions, voices like Samuel Abu Jinapor advocate for a more measured approach focused on party rebuilding and strategic timing. This internal discussion reflects broader questions about how political parties should balance immediate tactical considerations with long-term organizational health. As the political landscape evolves, the NPP’s approach to these decisions may significantly influence its competitiveness in future elections.
Sources
This article is based on statements made by Samuel Abu Jinapor in an interview with Joy News Parliamentary Affairs Correspondent, Kwaku Asante, as reported by Life Pulse Daily on February 4, 2026. The information reflects the political discourse within the New Patriotic Party regarding its preparations for the 2028 general elections.
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