New Patriotic Party (NPP) National Chairmanship aspirant Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has formally withdrawn from the party’s national chairmanship race, citing a desire to prioritize his personal circumstances and avoid potential distractions. The announcement, made on Monday, August 24, follows a period of reflection and consultations with his family, legal team, party elders, campaign team, and trusted supporters. Wontumi stated he had reached the decision after several nights of prayer, sober reflection, and extensive discussions, emphasizing a need for a focused approach to the crucial 2028 election campaign. He explained that while the decision was not his preferred outcome, the party’s current state – following a recent defeat – demanded a shift in priorities. “This is not the decision my heart desired, but sometimes, true love requires us to release what we deeply want in order to protect what we love even more,” he stated, referencing his desire to safeguard the NPP’s future. The withdrawal comes amidst a period of legal difficulties for the former Ashanti Regional Chairman, a factor he acknowledged but attributed to circumstances requiring a temporary detachment from the immediate political landscape. Chairman Wontumi emphasized his commitment to the NPP’s legacy and his unwavering belief in the party’s potential for resurgence. He expressed gratitude to his extensive network of supporters across the 16 regions, including campaign coordinators, constituency and regional executives, Members of Parliament, former government appointees, communicators, electoral area coordinators, polling station executives, youth and women’s groups, and diaspora supporters. He detailed the sacrifices made by his supporters during his campaign, highlighting those who endured ridicule, intimidation, and personal attacks due to their unwavering support for his candidacy. The former Ashanti Regional Chairman acknowledged the significant sacrifices made, noting that many supporters endured hardship and challenges, demonstrating a profound commitment to the party’s cause. Chairman Wontumi specifically urged his supporters to remain loyal to the tradition he spent his life serving, emphasizing the importance of unity and discipline within the NPP. He appealed to them to not allow his situation to create divisions or to abandon the party in pursuit of a united front ahead of the 2028 elections. “I have not surrendered, and I will never surrender in the pursuit of truth and justice,” he declared, stressing the importance of maintaining a steadfast and disciplined party. He specifically urged them to not insult or attack anyone on his behalf, target other aspirants, or abandon the party because of his circumstances. “If you truly love me, then remain loyal to the tradition I have spent my life serving,” he said, reinforcing his message of unwavering commitment to the NPP. Chairman Wontumi also underscored the importance of Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s support, stressing that the party’s presidential candidate’s success hinged on the collective efforts of every constituency, polling station, communicator, young person, and party member. He urged the NPP to close its ranks, put aside bitterness, and provide Dr. Bawumia with a united and disciplined party to rebuild the party and return it to power. He concluded by urging his supporters to remain strong, united, and loyal to the NPP, while maintaining their unwavering support for Dr. Bawumia. The withdrawal from the chairmanship race is described as a ‘painful pause’ rather than an end to his political journey, with the focus now shifting towards a strategic period of reflection and preparation for the 2028 elections. He concluded by urging his supporters to remain strong, united, and loyal to the NPP, while maintaining their support for Dr. Bawumia, stating that his body may be confined today, but his heart remains with you. The full statement is available here: [Insert Link to Full Statement Here]
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Source: MyJoyOnline
