Don’t back NDC-preferred candidate - Annoh-Dompreh to NPP delegates

Minority Chief Whip and Nsawam-Adoagyiri Member of Parliament, Frank Annoh-Dompreh, has cautioned delegates of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to remain vigilant in the party’s ongoing presidential primary, warning against supporting any aspirant perceived to be favoured by the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC).

Speaking on Monday during former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia’s campaign tour of the Ashanti Region, Annoh-Dompreh emphasized the need for strategic decision-making by delegates, asserting that the party’s internal choice must prioritize long-term electoral strength over short-term considerations.

“If the NDC is campaigning for a particular candidate in our primaries, then you should know that something is wrong,” he said, underscoring that any overt or covert involvement of the governing party in NPP contests should be treated as a warning signal.

The Nsawam-Adoagyiri lawmaker, who also serves as Minority Chief Whip, drew on historical electoral experiences, reminding delegates that governing party often supports candidates they believe could weaken the opposition party’s chances in future elections.

He noted that such tactics were aimed at undermining the NPP and urged delegates to cast their votes with the party’s broader national interests in mind.

Frank Annoh-Dompreh further encouraged party unity and strategic voting, stressing that spreading votes among multiple candidates could jeopardize the NPP’s prospects ahead of the 2028 general elections.

He specifically rallied support for former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, insisting that he is the candidate best positioned to lead the party in the next electoral cycle.

“Bawumia is going to win the forthcoming presidential primary. So don’t go and spoil your vote,” he warned, calling on delegates to consolidate support behind a clear frontrunner.

While acknowledging the contributions of other aspirants, including Education Minister Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum, Frank Annoh-Dompreh urged patience and long-term planning in party leadership succession.

“Dr Adutwum is my close friend… but this is not your time. Your time will come,” he told delegates, highlighting the importance of orderly transition and vision-driven leadership within the party.

Annoh-Dompreh’s intervention comes as the NPP intensifies preparations for its internal elections, with the party keen on maintaining cohesion and maximizing its chances against the NDC in 2028.

Political Analysts say the warning against backing candidates favoured by the governing party reflects the competitive and often tactical nature of Ghanaian party politics, where intra-party choices can have national consequences.