Introduction

The race for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer in Ghana’s 2026 elections is heating up, with Kennedy Ohene Agyapong emerging as a frontrunner, particularly among younger delegates. A recent poll by Sanity Africa reveals that Agyapong’s popularity among voters under 40 could be a game-changer in the upcoming primaries scheduled for January 31, 2026. This article delves into the poll’s findings, analyzes the demographics shaping delegate preferences, and explores how youth support might translate into financial backing and electoral success.

Key Points

Background: The NPP Flagbearer Race

The Contenders

The NPP’s flagbearer race features prominent figures, including:

• Kennedy Ohene Agyapong: A vocal MP and businessman known for his populist appeal.
• Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia: Ghana’s former Vice President, favored by older and employed delegates.
• Dr. Bryan Acheampong: A rising star with 7% support.
• Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum and Ing. Kwabena Agyapong: Trailing with minimal backing.

The Poll’s Methodology

The Sanity Africa survey was conducted between December 2025 and January 2026, sampling NPP delegates across age groups, genders, and employment statuses. The findings highlight generational shifts in political preferences, with younger voters leaning toward Agyapong’s candidacy.

Analysis: Youth Support as a Decisive Factor

Demographic Breakdown

Agyapong’s strength lies in his youth appeal:

• Under 40 delegates: 63% support Agyapong vs. 33.5% for Bawumia.
• Students: 58.9% favor Agyapong.
• Unemployed delegates: 52.8% back Agyapong.

Gender and Religious Dynamics

Women and Christian delegates prefer Agyapong (57.8% and 61.6%, respectively), while Bawumia leads among men (48.9%) and Muslims (52.8%). This suggests Agyapong’s messaging resonates with traditionally marginalized groups within the NPP.

Employment and Age Trends

Bawumia’s support peaks among middle-aged (40–55) and older delegates (55+), as well as those in full-time employment. Conversely, Agyapong’s base includes self-employed voters, students, and the unemployed—groups seeking economic opportunities.

Practical Advice for Campaigns

Leveraging Youth Support

Agyapong’s campaign should:

1. Amplify digital outreach to engage young voters on social media.
2. Highlight job creation policies to appeal to unemployed delegates.
3. Secure financial backing from youth-driven donors and grassroots networks.

Bawumia’s Counter-Strategy

To compete, Bawumia must:

1. Address youth unemployment with targeted economic proposals.
2. Bridge the gender gap by emphasizing inclusive policies.
3. Mobilize older delegates through traditional campaign channels.

FAQ: NPP Flagbearer Race

When are the NPP primaries?

The primaries are scheduled for January 31, 2026.

Why is youth support critical for Agyapong?

Younger delegates represent a growing bloc within the NPP, and their enthusiasm could translate into volunteerism and financial contributions.

How reliable is the Sanity Africa poll?

The poll’s methodology aligns with standard practices, but outcomes depend on voter turnout and last-minute shifts in sentiment.

Conclusion

The NPP flagbearer race is shaping up as a contest between generational priorities. Kennedy Agyapong’s dominance among youth, students, and unemployed delegates positions him as a formidable candidate, while Dr. Bawumia retains strength among older and employed voters. As the primaries approach, the ability to convert youth support into financial and organizational resources will likely determine the outcome. For political observers, this race underscores the evolving dynamics of Ghana’s electoral landscape.

Sources

• Sanity Africa Poll (December 2025–January 2026).
• Life Pulse Daily. (2026). It’s a 52% Straight Win for Kennedy Agyapong.
• Multimedia Group Limited Disclaimer (2026).