NPP Delegates Beware !!! Expert Analysis Declares Kennedy Agyapong NPP’s Only Lifeline
An independent political analyst provide detailed expert analysis that every NPP delegate must consider before making voting decision at 2026 Presidential Primary.
January 31, 2026, will mark a historic moment in the history of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in Ghana. For the second time, two prominent party rivals are set to compete head-to-head for the party’s leadership. The main contenders are Hon. Kennedy Ohene Agyapong - a renowned Business Mogul and former Member of Parliament for Assin Central and Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Economist and Former Vice President of Ghana.
While there is significant debate and speculation among party members and the public about who might win, the purpose of this article is not to predict the outcome. Instead, it seeks to provide a neutral, analytical perspective from the point of view of an NPP delegate on who may best represent the party as its flagbearer.
Make no mistake, the presidential primaries are intended to select a party flagbearer, not the President of Ghana. The chosen candidate must be someone capable of leading the party and successfully contesting the presidency in the general elections. At this stage, the decision lies with the party delegates — who have the formal voting power to decide the party’s future flagbearer.
Readers must note that, as an AfriDeem contributor, I write from an expert political analyst perspective, which does not represent AfriDeem official, non-partisan stance. I have evaluated both candidates using seven neutral, non-partisan criteria. Candidates are rated on a five-star rating . Also each criteria is weighted on a level of importance from least (1) to most important (5) criteria. Points are allotted to each candidate based on ratings and the criteria importance.
International and Diplomatic Credibility | Weight - 1
A flagbearer must be able to represent Ghana on the global stage. Delegates should assess whether a candidate can build constructive international partnerships, attract investment, and command global respect. Does the candidate have the necessary experience and connections to succeed in this role?
Kennedy Agyapong | 2.5 Stars ★★✨☆☆ | 2.5 pts
In terms of international and diplomatic credibility, Kennedy may lag behind Bawumia. Despite serving as a Member of Parliament for 25 years, Kennedy has established strong local and continental partnerships and has successfully attracted investment through his business ventures. While the presidency itself grants global recognition, Kennedy would need to build such prestige over time, as this would be his first attempt at ascending to the highest office. Notwithstanding this, he has demonstrated international connections even before holding presidential office, including relationships with Chinese, Arab, and American partners, exemplified by his project to establish the largest pharmaceutical company in Ghana’s Central Region, etc. This demonstrates Kennedy’s ability to leverage his network and prove to Ghanaians that he can operate effectively on a larger stage even before assuming formal presidential duties.
Mahamudu Bawumia | 4.0 Stars ★★★★☆ | 4 pts
Bawumia tenure as vice president gives him a significant advantage in this area. Through his experience representing Ghana at both continental and global levels, he has likely developed partnerships with heads of state, prospective leaders, and international organizations. This experience positions him to maintain and strengthen these partnerships more effectively than Kennedy, providing a solid foundation for Ghana’s diplomatic engagement as president.
Verdict
Considering the capacity to represent Ghana at the highest level, Bawumia outclasses Kennedy in this criterion. While Kennedy demonstrates strong connections in his private and business life, he has not yet done so in the formal capacity of representing the Republic of Ghana. Therefore, Bawumia earns a higher rating of 4 stars, compared to Kennedy’s 2.5 stars.
Track Record, Experience & Competence | Weight - 1
Delegates must examine candidates’ previous leadership roles, achievements, and failures. This includes leadership in government, the party, or community roles, as well as the candidate’s ability to understand complex national issues, make informed decisions, manage government operations, and collaborate effectively with technocrats and institutions. Experience may come from public service, the private sector, or party leadership.
Kennedy Agyapong | 4.0 Stars ★★★★☆ | 4 pts
Kennedy served as a Member of Parliament for 25 years, from 2000 to 2025, giving him extensive political experience. He demonstrates leadership that has earned the respect of his constituents; when he decided not to contest further, chiefs and the community of Assin Central pleaded for him to remain in office—a clear sign of local confidence in his leadership. Beyond politics, Kennedy has successfully managed numerous business enterprises, which enhances trust among Ghanaian businessmen who believe he understands their challenges. In terms of public service, community engagement, and party roles, Kennedy arguably surpasses Bawumia.
Mahamudu Bawumia | 3.0 Stars ★★★☆☆ | 3 pts
Bawumia entered politics in 2008 as the running mate to Nana Akufo-Addo. While his position as vice president placed him close to the presidency, questions remain about the effectiveness and impact of his leadership. Many Ghanaians associate the administration he served under with failures, including economic challenges like cedi depreciation, which undermines his track record. Despite his experience in a high office, Bawumia’s accomplishments have left limited lasting impact, making it difficult for the public to see tangible results from his tenure.
Verdict
Both candidates bring distinct experiences to the table: Kennedy as a seasoned politician and businessman, Bawumia as an economist and former vice president. However, when evaluating overall experience and measurable impact, Kennedy has the advantage. He understands Ghana’s political environment and has consistently demonstrated effective leadership in both politics and business. While Bawumia’s role as vice president is notable, the lack of visible impact diminishes the relevance of his experience. Therefore, Kennedy earns 4 stars, and Bawumia receives 3 stars.
Character, Temperament, & Leadership Style | Weight - 2
Delegates must consider traits such as emotional intelligence, humility versus arrogance, ability to listen, crisis-management skills, consistency under pressure, and the discipline to hold wrongdoers—especially corrupt officials—accountable. These qualities are particularly important in Ghana, where citizens are deeply frustrated with corruption.
Kennedy Agyapong | 3.5 Stars ★★★✨☆ | 7 pts
Character can be deceiving; people are not always what they appear to be externally. Kennedy may be perceived as highly temperamental, arrogant, and harsh. Not a surprise, in Ghana’s business environment, toughness is often necessary to survive and succeed. Kennedy has demonstrated resilience, energy, and determination—traits that have contributed to his success.
In a nation grappling with endemic corruption, one might say that such a temperament is desirable. Kennedy’s high energy, discipline, and consistency have enabled him to overcome significant challenges. On his podcast with Kennected Minds podcast, he discussed how persistence and disciplined effort helped him reach his current level of achievement.
Additionally, Kennedy has shown significant altruism. Over the years, he has paid school fees for hundreds of students in Assin Central, built schools, CHIP compounds, market centers, and even supported individuals in pursuing political roles—all from his personal resources. This record of service and discipline enhances his profile as a leader with strong character.
Mahamudu Bawumia | 2.5 Stars ★★✨✩✩ | 5 pts
Bawumia has consistently presented a calm and composed demeanor. Unlike Kennedy, Bawumia maintains a constant, smiling persona. While some may interpret this as timidity, it could also be a deliberate approach to leadership.
However, when it comes to crisis management—particularly during issues such as currency depreciation—Bawumia’s performance has been criticized. As vice president under Akufo-Addo, he remained largely silent during periods of corruption within the administration, reflecting a lack of discipline in holding officials accountable. Furthermore, there is no widely recognized record of altruistic service or charity on his part that resonates with the public.
Verdict
Both candidates exhibit different leadership qualities. Kennedy demonstrates a high-temperament style, toughness, discipline, and a history of altruistic service, which are valuable for addressing corruption in Ghana. Bawumia’s calm and composed nature is not inherently negative, but in comparison, it lacks the visible impact needed for transformative leadership. Consequently, Kennedy earns 3.5 stars, and Bawumia receives 2.5 stars.
Integrity, Ethics & Accountability | Weight - 3
Ghana’s political environment places high value on honesty and accountability. Delegates must consider: Has the candidate demonstrated integrity? Are there unresolved scandals or corruption issues? Do they model accountability? How are they perceived by Ghanaians on these fronts? This factor is particularly relevant as Ghanaian youth are increasingly frustrated with government corruption.
Kennedy Agyapong | 4.5 Stars ★★★★✨ | 13.5 pts
Kennedy is widely admired, especially among the youth, for his honesty and willingness to speak the truth without fear or apology. Over the years, he has built a reputation as a politician of integrity. In Parliament, he is recognized for exposing more corruption than almost any other member, including high-profile cases like the Woyome saga.
Kennedy demonstrates an independent streak: he does not follow the crowd when it involves wrongdoing, even if it implicates his own party. He has consistently condemned corrupt actions by politicians, often acting alone without support. For example, it is believed—though unconfirmed—that he even voted in favor of the opposition NDC in electing the Speaker of Parliament, highlighting his commitment to principle over party politics.
His track record signals a genuine desire to fight corruption and advocate for the average Ghanaian, which resonates strongly with citizens. A candidate perceived as “clean” and trustworthy energizes the youth, appeals to middle-class professionals, reduces political apathy, and strengthens the party’s image.
Mahamudu Bawumia | 2.5 Stars ★★✨✩✩ | 7.5 pts
The Akufo-Addo administration, under which Bawumia served as vice president, is widely regarded as one of Ghana’s most corrupt modern governments. Because of his role in that administration, Bawumia’s name is often associated with governance failures and corruption. During his campaign, he has attempted to distance himself from the Akufo-Addo legacy, claiming he was just the “mate” rather than the driver and had limited influence—an argument that resonates weakly with many Ghanaians.
Bawumia has no widely recognized record of independently fighting corruption or exposing wrongdoing, either within his party or government. Consequently, public perception does not associate him with integrity or accountability.
Verdict
Kennedy’s consistent record of exposing corruption and advocating for accountability earns him a strong advantage in this category. Bawumia, by contrast, carries the burden of association with a widely criticized administration and lacks a personal record of ethical leadership. Accordingly, Kennedy is rated 4.5 stars, and Bawumia 2.5 stars.
Vision, Policy Agenda & Economic Understanding | Weight - 4
Delegates must assess whether the candidate presents a clear, realistic, and coherent vision for Ghana. This includes evaluating policy proposals that address key national priorities such as jobs, education, health, energy, agriculture, and economic stability. Given Ghana’s ongoing economic challenges, it is important to assess whether the candidate: understands macroeconomic issues, has feasible plans for job creation (Ghana’s number one problem), and comprehends the country’s debt, inflation, and investment environment. A credible economic message can attract undecided voters, restore public confidence, and set the candidate apart.
Kennedy Agyapong | 4.0 ★★★★☆ | 16 pts
Kennedy consistently communicates a clear vision for Ghana: industrialization. His message is supported not just by words but by his personal track record of building businesses, industries, and organizations. This real-world experience positions him as a leader Ghanaians can trust to address unemployment and transform the country into a production hub for Africa.
Through his 25 years as a parliamentarian and decades of business experience, Kennedy has gained insight into economic challenges and the effects of instability on businesses and investors. His campaign demonstrates feasible plans for job creation, reflecting a hands-on understanding of Ghana’s economic needs. Kennedy’s emphasis on following the footsteps of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, a celebrated African leader, further reinforces his vision and commitment to national development.
Mahamudu Bawumia | 2.5 ★★✨☆☆ | 10 pts
Bawumia brings strong academic and professional credentials to the table, including experience at the Bank of Ghana and a deep understanding of macroeconomic principles. He is recognized for accurate economic predictions and has earned the moniker “the economics prophet.”
However, Bawumia lacks a track record of translating this knowledge into practical results. During his tenure as vice president, Ghana’s industrialization efforts were largely unfulfilled, with programs such as “One District, One Factory” failing to meet expectations. While he understands economic principles theoretically, he has not demonstrated effective implementation, particularly in job creation—Ghana’s most pressing issue.
Verdict
While a president does not need to be an expert in every aspect of governance, they must demonstrate competence in key areas and the ability to leverage experts to implement policies. Kennedy, though as a businessman and politician, has practical experience creating jobs and managing economic ventures, and he has articulated feasible plans for national industrialization. Bawumia, despite his strong economic knowledge, struggles with practical application and has a record of unfulfilled promises in key economic initiatives.
On the basis of vision, policy agenda, and practical economic understanding, Kennedy outperforms Bawumia, earning 4 stars, while Bawumia receives 2.5 stars.
Party Unity & Coalition-Building Ability | Weight - 4
A strong leader should strengthen the party rather than divide it. Delegates must ask: Can this candidate bring all factions together? Will their leadership reduce internal conflict or exacerbate it? A leader who fosters division gives the opposition an advantage, making internal cohesion before and after the primaries essential for electoral success.
Kennedy Agyapong | 3.5 Stars ★★★✨☆ | 14 pts
Kennedy has consistently emphasized unity in his campaign. During his tour of the Eastern Region, he actively engaged delegates, advising them to avoid partisan politics and focus on collective goals. This demonstrates a genuine effort to bridge divides and inspire cohesion within the party.
With 25 years of parliamentary experience and a history of supporting party initiatives—including providing over 200 pickup vehicles for elections—Kennedy has shown dedication and loyalty to the party. His long-standing service and demonstrated commitment suggest that he has the influence and credibility needed to unite internal factions, prevent post-primary bitterness, inspire grassroots mobilization, and bring former rivals on board. In essence, Kennedy possesses the qualities necessary to translate unity into votes.
Mahamudu Bawumia | 3 Stars ★★★☆☆ | 12 pts
Bawumia’s record on party unity is less clear. While he has remained relatively calm publicly regarding allegations of internal division, there have been reports of party communicators creating confusion online and attacking Kennedy’s reputation, signaling underlying tensions.
Additionally, the departure of respected party figure Alan Kyeremateng—who cited favoritism and division within the party—highlights challenges in internal cohesion during Bawumia’s tenure as vice president. Such divisions have had tangible electoral consequences, particularly in the Ashanti region, where party unity has historically influenced voter turnout.
Verdict
Considering past divisions within the party and the need to unify all factions, Kennedy demonstrates a stronger potential to bring the party together across regions. His long-standing dedication and proactive approach to unity give him an edge over Bawumia in this regard. Therefore, Kennedy is rated 3.5 stars, while Bawumia receives 3 stars.
Electability and National Appeal | Weight - 5
Arguably the most important factor delegates must consider is electability. It is the single strongest determinant of victory. The ultimate goal is to select a flagbearer who can win the national elections against the main opposition, the NDC. Delegates must assess a candidate’s appeal across regions, ethnic groups, and demographics, as well as their communication skills, public trust, and perception, particularly among the youth.
Ask yourselves: Which candidate would the opposition prefer we present? Whichever candidate the opposition would most like to face is a weak link - and should be avoided. Even the most qualified candidate will fail if they lack broad national appeal. A successful flagbearer must attract floating voters, be likable and relatable to ordinary Ghanaians and win swing votes.
Kennedy Agyapong | 4.5 Stars ★★★★✨ | 22.5 pts
It is very clear that Kennedy communicates better than his competitors on campaign platforms and public stages. His message resonates strongly with the masses—especially the youth. Kennedy presents the NPP with a candidate who embodies love for the nation, a commitment to fighting corruption, honesty, straightforward, and a focus on addressing the country’s most urgent needs - job creation.
In the most recent elections, the NPP suffered the heaviest defeat in Ghana’s election history, largely because the previous government’s reputation had become deeply unpopular. Presenting a candidate closely associated with that administration risks reminding Ghanaians of the last eight years—years many do not want to relive.
Kennedy, however, offers a clean brand and a fresh face—making him the ideal candidate under these circumstances for the NPP.
Mahamudu Bawumia | 2.5 Stars ★★✨☆☆ | 12.5 pts
Bawumia may be a good candidate, but presenting him comes with a heavy political cost. His candidacy immediately triggers painful and disappointed memories of the Akufo-Addo administration. Ghanaians recall the unfulfilled promises, the economic hardship, and especially the depreciation of the cedi—an issue Bawumia himself campaigned on but failed to fix, ultimately corrected by Ato Forson of the NDC. This alone raises questions of competence and credibility, and many Ghanaians simply do not want to revisit that era.
Additionally, it becomes extremely difficult for the NPP to craft an effective campaign message if their own candidate symbolizes the very failures voters rejected. His public speaking struggles and lack of political charisma only worsened the issue, making it hard for him to energize voters or win the swing constituencies needed for national victory.
Verdict
For the NPP to have any chance of winning the upcoming election, they must make a bold statement to Ghanaians. They need to show they have learned from past mistakes and are presenting someone trustworthy—someone who represents a new direction.
Bringing back a figure directly associated with past failures would be a major strategic error and could keep the party in opposition for many years. That makes Bawumia a risky and unfavorable option.
Kennedy, on the other hand, gives the NPP a real opportunity to rebrand and challenge the incumbent. The NDC is already presenting a new face—one that will likely solidify strong national support over time. This means the NPP must also present someone who offers freshness, credibility, and a clean break from the previous administration.
This election cycle is the NPP’s best chance to reset, and Kennedy Agyapong is the candidate who gives the party that chance. Kennedy is rated 4.5 stars, while Bawumia receives 2.5 stars on the most important criteria - Electability and National Appeal.
FINAL VERDICT
Delegates must vote Hon. Kennedy Agyapong over Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia
The ultimate objective of the NPP presidential primaries is simple: elect the candidate who can win the 2028 general election. This is not about personal loyalty, emotion, or short-term excitement. It is about securing the long-term survival and return of the party to power. Delegates must therefore think beyond temporary jubilations and look at the bigger picture.
There is no strategic value in choosing a candidate who cannot deliver victory in 2028. Doing so risks keeping the party in opposition for another eight years. For this reason, delegates must carefully weigh the key criteria discussed above—not based on personal preference, but based on what gives the NPP the strongest path back to government.
After evaluating the candidates across seven critical metrics, the analysis is clear:
Hon. Kennedy Agyapong outperforms Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia in six out of seven categories, including the most decisive ones.
Based on this assessment:
Kennedy Agyapong scores 79.5/100
Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia scores 54.0/100
If the NPP is truly committed to regaining power in 2028, the evidence strongly suggests that delegates should rally behind Hon. Kennedy Agyapong as the candidate with the highest overall capacity, broader national appeal, and stronger winning potential.
Maybe this analysis above may be difficult for some unintelligent NPP delegates to comprehend. Let me break it down to a layman view.
Consider NPP as your company, NDC as your competitor in the same line of business, delegates as board members, Kennedy Agyapong/Mahamudu Bawumia as your products, Ghanaians as your customers (with swing or floating voters as your target customers) and the primaries as a general board meeting. Your role during the primaries (board meeting) is to vote to select a product (Kennedy or Bawumia) that your customers (Ghanaian voter or floating voters) will want to buy. It is not about the product you like, but what your customers like or will appeal your customers. Failure to focus on what customers like will keep you out of business (keep you in opposition) since your customers will rather go for the product presented by your competitor (NDC). So choose wisely.