Ghana’s former vice-president Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, the NPP’s 2024 presidential candidate, has condemned what he calls ethnically and religiously motivated attacks on his campaign for the New Patriotic Party’s presidential nomination.
Speaking to party supporters at the NPP USA’s 33rd anniversary celebration in New York on Saturday evening, the politician who led the party to defeat in the 2024 general election criticised recent statements from rival candidates that he believes cross ethical lines in political competition.
Mr Bawumia’s remarks follow a widely circulated video featuring presidential hopeful Dr Bryan Acheampong. In the footage, Acheampong suggests to party delegates that the NPP should reconsider Bawumia’s candidacy, arguing that his Mamprusi ethnic background cost the party Kusasi votes in the 2024 general election due to historical tensions between the two groups.
Mr Bawumia also referenced comments from former minister and ambassador Asomah Cheremeh, who allegedly encouraged delegates to reject his candidacy based on claims about his wife Samira Bawumia’s Ghanaian credentials.
Mr Bawumia highlighted what he sees as inconsistency in these attacks, pointing out that his ethnic and religious identity was never questioned during pivotal moments in the party’s recent history. He cited his involvement in the 2013 election petition challenge and the successful 2016 and 2020 campaign cycles as examples of when his background was considered an asset rather than a liability.
The candidate recalled extensive campaigning efforts by both him and his wife across Ghana’s regions, emphasising their contributions to the party’s electoral victories.
Despite expressing disappointment with the tone of the campaign, Mr Bawumia projected confidence that divisive rhetoric would not undermine his prospects. He labelled those promoting ethnic and religious divisions as “bigots” whose efforts would ultimately prove unsuccessful.
The former vice-president reinforced the NPP’s traditional commitment to inclusivity, describing it as a party that welcomes Ghanaians regardless of their ethnic origin, religious affiliation, economic status, or educational background.
“Under our tent it has not mattered where you come from, what religion you practise, whether you are rich or poor, or whether you are formally educated or not,” Bawumia stated, expressing confidence that unity would prevail over attempts at division.
The statements reflect ongoing tensions within the NPP as the party prepares for its internal presidential primary, with candidates competing for the opportunity to lead the party into future elections.
