I will welcome everyone with open arms - Bawumia

Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) flagbearer, has promised an inclusive and conciliatory leadership following his victory in the party’s 2026 presidential primaries, pledging to unite all members, including those who opposed his bid.

Addressing supporters and party executives at his residence in Tse Addo, Accra, on Monday, January 2, Dr. Bawumia said internal unity remains the party’s strongest pathway to victory in the 2028 general elections. According to him, resolving internal challenges within the NPP is critical to regaining power.

“If you fundamentally solve the internal problem, you are already on the path to victory. If 2.1 million people had voted, we would have won. I intend to be open-minded, open-hearted and open-armed to everyone, including those who insulted me,” he stated.

Dr. Bawumia secured the flagbearer position with 56.48 percent of the valid votes, defeating four other contenders. He said his immediate focus is on consolidating support across the country and fostering unity within the party ahead of the 2028 polls.

Since the declaration of the results, his Tse Addo residence has seen heightened political activity, with party executives, supporters, and former rivals paying courtesy calls. Among them were Kwabena Agyepong and Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, who both pledged their support.

Reflecting on his performance, Dr. Bawumia expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the primaries, describing the results as an improvement over previous contests.

“I am happier with this result than I was in 2023. A qualitative assessment of the data shows this is a superior outcome. We won more constituencies than last time,” he noted.

In a related development, the Minority Caucus in Parliament, led by Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, also visited the flagbearer to assure him of their support.

“Our commitment as a caucus is to him. Parliament will be instrumental in advancing his vision and championing it on the floor of the House,” Mr. Afenyo-Markin said.

The NPP presidential primaries, held on January 31, 2026, saw Dr. Bawumia emerge victorious with 56.48 percent of the total valid votes, ahead of Kennedy Agyapong (23.76%), Dr. Bryan Acheampong (18.53%), Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum (1.02%), and Kwabena Agyei Agyepong (0.21%).

Source: Sekunde FM