It’s difficult for first-time NPP Presidential candidate to win election – Bawumia

Former Vice President of Ghana and 2024 NPP flagbearer, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, has boldly declared that the 2028 general elections will be a “cool chop” for the New Patriotic Party (NPP). According to him, the political trend in Ghana shows that it is very hard for a first-time presidential candidate to win, and that gives the NPP a big advantage in the next election.

Speaking to enthusiastic party members and supporters at a private NPP gathering, Bawumia sounded confident, hopeful, and strategic as he made a strong case for why the NPP can bounce back in 2028.

Bawumia’s Logic: Political History Favors NPP in 2028

Dr Bawumia explained that based on Ghana’s electoral history, voters do not easily hand over power to a new, unknown candidate from the ruling party unless they’ve seen the person contest multiple times. He stated:

“I believe that in 2028, the NPP will come back into government. If you look at our political history, it suggests that it is usually very difficult for a first-time presidential candidate to win an election in Ghana,” he said. “I don’t know why that is, but Ghanaians want you to come more than once.”

According to him, since President John Dramani Mahama will complete his second and final term by 2028, the NDC will be forced to present a new face, a candidate Ghanaians have never elected before.

“I believe we will have an advantage, all things being equal, over that new candidate coming in 2028. I believe we will have a very big advantage,” he stressed.

In simple terms, Bawumia is telling the NPP base to keep hope alive. He believes that the NDC’s future candidate will struggle to defeat an experienced NPP figure like himself or another well-known party member.

Ghanaians React: “But Mahama Won on His First Try!”

However, Bawumia’s bold claims were quickly challenged by social media users, many of whom called out his “poor understanding of political history”.

One X (formerly Twitter) user commented:

“Wasn’t it the same Mahama who won his first election in 2012? So what is Bawumia saying? Ghanaians don’t always wait for second or third-time contestants.”

Indeed, in 2012, President Mahama—who had just taken over from the late President Mills—won the presidential election on his first official run as a candidate. That victory weakens Bawumia’s argument that first-timers always lose.

Some also accused the former Vice President of trying to sound relevant too soon after the NPP’s humiliating defeat in the 2024 elections.

“The NPP just lost power. Instead of showing remorse and helping fix Ghana, they are already talking about 2028,” one Facebook user posted.

Others took the opportunity to express their frustration over NPP’s poor economic management, which led to hardship, high inflation, and loss of jobs under their leadership.

Bawumia Apologises: “We Got Some Things Wrong”

Interestingly, Dr Bawumia also used the opportunity to apologise to the rank-and-file of the NPP for mistakes made during his time in office.

For many years, Bawumia was celebrated within the NPP as the party’s “Economic Messiah” or “Economic Wizkid.” However, by the time the NPP left power in 2025, public trust in his economic skills had dwindled, especially due to inflation, rising public debt, and a controversial debt restructuring programme.

In a rare moment of humility, Bawumia said:

“We got many things right, but we also got some things wrong. We have learnt from our experience.”

He went on to promise that the next NPP government would be more focused, humble, and inclusive, especially toward the suffering ordinary Ghanaian and loyal party foot soldiers.

“We Have Learnt Our Lessons” – A New Bawumia Strategy?

The former Vice President seems to be rebranding himself after the NPP’s fall from power. By apologising and admitting mistakes, he may be trying to reconnect with disappointed party supporters and the floating voters who were once his biggest fans.

This is also seen as part of his plan to remain a central figure within the NPP, especially as the party begins to prepare for the next flagbearership race.

Some political watchers believe this is a smart move. Dr Bawumia is not only acknowledging public disappointment but is also positioning himself as the best bet for 2028, even though he lost in 2024.

NPP’s Road to 2028: Can They Rebuild?

The New Patriotic Party is currently in recovery mode after losing the 2024 general elections to the National Democratic Congress (NDC). Many within the party have blamed internal divisions, arrogance, and disconnection from the grassroots for the defeat.

Party elders like Kennedy Agyapong have recently called for unity and an end to factionalism. Bawumia’s latest remarks appear to align with that call, urging the party to focus on the long-term goal of reclaiming power.

Still, the NPP has a tough job ahead. The memories of economic hardship, rising taxes, and broken promises are still fresh in the minds of many Ghanaians.

To win again, the party will have to:

Regain public trust, especially from the youth who felt betrayed.

Present a united front, avoiding backbiting and “skirt-and-blouse” voting patterns.

Show real humility and apologise, just like Bawumia has started doing.

Bring new policies that address bread-and-butter issues, like jobs, food prices, rent, and transport.

Looking Ahead: Who Will Lead NDC in 2028?

As Bawumia rightly pointed out, President Mahama cannot run again in 2028. This means the NDC will have to choose a new flagbearer—and that could either be an advantage or a disadvantage, depending on how well the new candidate connects with voters.

Some names already being whispered include:

Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, the current Minority Leader.

Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, Mahama’s 2020 and 2024 running mate.

Sammy Gyamfi, the fiery NDC National Communications Officer.

Julius Debrah, former Chief of Staff.

Whoever it is, that person must step into big shoes and inspire Ghanaians just as Mahama did. That will not be easy—but it’s not impossible.

Conclusion: Will 2028 Be ‘Cool Chop’ for NPP or Another Wake-Up Call?

Dr Bawumia’s statement has sparked hope within the NPP, but also mockery and anger among voters. His apology is a step in the right direction, but Ghanaians will not vote on sweet talk alone. They will want to see actions, humility, and a clear plan for a better Ghana.

As both NPP and NDC begin early preparations, one thing is clear: 2028 won’t be an easy ride for anyone. The real victory will go to the party that truly connects with the people—and not the one that simply banks on political trends.

So, the big question remains:

Will 2028 be a “cool chop” for the NPP, or another hot heartbreak?

Only time will tell.