The National Publicity Council of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has announced the withdrawal of Wontumi, currently serving 20 years in jail, from the race for the October 3, 2026, national executive elections. This decision follows a heartfelt conversation with his family, legal team, party elders, campaign team, and supporters, culminating in a profound sense of reflection and consultation regarding his personal circumstances and future path. Wontumi, who has been a prominent figure in the NPP, cited a desire to ‘release what he deeply wants to protect – his family and the party’s future’ as the primary impetus for his withdrawal. He explained that his decision stems from a desire to avoid potential burdens on the party, reflecting a profound sense of love and loyalty to his family and the NPP. The rationale behind this withdrawal is deeply rooted in a personal crisis, specifically stemming from his assignment of mineral rights to his company, Akonta Mining Limited, to two individuals, Michael Gyedu Ayisi and Henry Okum, without prior approval from the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources. This incident, which occurred five years prior, resulted in the granting of significant rights to his company, a decision Mr. Antwi-Boasiako, the fifth chairman aspirant, has now deemed unacceptable. He has pledged to lead an inclusive administration and serve every member of the NPP, irrespective of factional affiliations, preferred candidate, region, or generation. He emphasized that the NPP’s ability to defeat political opponents hinges on a collective commitment to eliminating enemies, a sentiment underscored by his campaign’s three core objectives: ‘Reunite, Reorganise, and Recapture.’ Mr. Afoko, who filed his nomination, pledged to lead an inclusive administration and serve the party’s members, irrespective of their allegiance. He declared that the NPP’s strength lies in its members’ detachment from each other as enemies, stating that only when they cease treating one another as adversaries can the party regain its power. Mr. Afoko’s campaign strategy centers on three objectives: ‘Reunite, Reorganise, and Recapture’, positioning the party to challenge for political power in the 2028 general election. Mr. Agyarko, meanwhile, stated his intention to address current challenges confronting the NPP and restore its political standing. He urged party members to remain hopeful despite the current difficulties, asserting that the party still possesses the capacity to bounce back. He emphasized that he intends to help the party regain power and support the Vice-President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s presidential ambitions. The withdrawal represents a significant shift in the NPP landscape, highlighting Mr. Antwi-Boasiako’s personal considerations and a potential re-evaluation of leadership strategies within the party.
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Source: Graphic Online
