2028 Elections: Bawumia doesn’t have good advisors to win – NPP 1st Nat’l Vice Chairman
The 1st National Vice Chairman of the opposition NPP, Danquah Smith-Buttey, has caused a stir by saying Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia doesn’t have good advisors.
This shocking statement came after the NPP’s recent “Thank You” tour, which was led by Dr. Bawumia to show appreciation to party members and Ghanaians for their support during the 2024 elections.
But according to Chairman Buttey, the tour didn’t achieve its goal.
Speaking on Hot 93.9 FM’s Hot Morning Drive with Don Kwabena Prah, Chairman Buttey said, “I don’t believe the Thank You Tour achieved its intended purpose.”
He explained that the tour should have been used to highlight the NPP’s achievements and bring unity, not expose the party’s internal issues.
One big controversy happened during the tour when Dr. Bawumia accused some people within their own government of working against him by increasing petrol prices just three days before the elections.
But Chairman Buttey believes that was a wrong move. In his view, Bawumia’s comments showed that those advising him are not giving him good direction.
“He shouldn’t have gone that way. From what he said, it’s clear to me that he doesn’t have good advisors,” Chairman Buttey added in a serious tone.
Background
In the 2024 Ghanaian general elections, Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, representing the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), was defeated by former President John Dramani Mahama of the National Democratic Congress (NDC). Mahama secured 56.55% of the vote, while Bawumia garnered 41.61% . This outcome marked a significant political shift, ending the NPP’s eight-year tenure and reinstating Mahama for a non-consecutive term.
Economic Challenges and Policy Decisions
A primary factor in Bawumia’s defeat was widespread public dissatisfaction with the country’s economic situation. Ghana faced high inflation, a depreciating currency, and a controversial debt restructuring program under the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The introduction of the Electronic Transfer Levy (E-Levy) and the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP) further strained public trust. These policies, perceived as burdensome, particularly affected pensioners and mobile money users, leading to significant public outcry .
Internal Party Dynamics and Leadership Decisions
Within the NPP, there was growing concern over leadership decisions. The party’s reluctance to reshuffle ministerial positions, despite calls for change, was seen as a sign of complacency. Bawumia himself acknowledged that the party’s failure to heed advice on critical issues, including the E-Levy and DDEP, contributed to their electoral loss . Additionally, internal divisions and a lack of unity weakened the party’s campaign efforts .
Opposition Strategy and Public Perception
The NDC capitalized on the NPP’s vulnerabilities by running a focused campaign that highlighted the government’s economic missteps and policy failures. They effectively used public relations to remind voters of the hardships faced under the NPP’s governance, including unpopular taxes and environmental issues like illegal mining (galamsey) . This strategy resonated with the electorate, who were eager for change.
Regional Voting Patterns and Voter Apathy
The NPP experienced reduced support in its traditional strongholds. In regions like Ashanti and Eastern, where the party previously enjoyed significant margins, there was a noticeable decline in voter turnout and enthusiasm . This voter apathy, coupled with the NDC’s strong performance in its base regions, contributed to the NPP’s overall defeat.
Concession and Democratic Maturity
Demonstrating political maturity, Bawumia conceded defeat before the official announcement of results, emphasizing the importance of maintaining peace and stability in Ghana.
Looking Ahead
The 2024 elections underscored the electorate’s desire for responsive governance and economic stability. For the NPP, this defeat serves as a catalyst for introspection and potential restructuring. As Ghana moves forward under Mahama’s leadership, the focus will be on addressing economic challenges and fulfilling campaign promises to restore public confidence.