On January 31, 2026, delegates of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) will go to the polls to elect a presidential flagbearer for the 2028 general elections.
Although this is formally an internal party exercise, its implications extend far beyond partisan boundaries.
The individual chosen will be a potential president of the Republic. In that sense, the decision before the delegates carries unmistakable national significance.
They act not only as representatives of their party but, in a meaningful respect, as custodians of the broader public interest.
A legacy of leadership
Since the advent of the Fourth Republic in 1992, the NPP has conducted several presidential primaries.
These contests have produced notable leaders such as Professor Albert Adu Boahen, President John Agyekum Kufuor, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and Vice -President Mahamudu Bawumia, who have left enduring marks on Ghana’s political and institutional development.
The party’s tradition, grounded in liberal democratic and conservative thought, places strong emphasis on the rule of law, constitutionalism, individual liberty, private enterprise and ethical leadership.
Every major undertaking of the party, including the selection of its presidential candidate, ought to reflect these ideals with clarity and consistency.
Internal democracy in practice
The NPP is widely recognised for its commitment to internal democracy and competitive politics.
Its capacity to contest vigorously and subsequently reunite has often distinguished it within Ghana’s multiparty system.
This primary election, once again, tests that reputation.
Electoral contests, by their nature, generate intense debate, sharp disagreements and strong emotions.
The current campaign season has not departed from this pattern. Yet, experience shows that elections pass, but words spoken during them endure.
What remains are the words spoken and the conduct displayed by candidates and their authorised representatives.
For this reason, restraint and measured language are indispensable.
Careless statements, personal attacks or reckless accusations may secure temporary attention, but they risk long-term damage to party cohesion and public confidence.
Temperate discourse before, during and after the primaries will ease reconciliation and strengthen unity.
Such discipline accords with the party’s philosophical foundations and serves the strategic interest of preparing for the national contest ahead.
It is also important to stress that the outcome of the primaries does not produce a real loser.
Whoever emerges as flagbearer carries a collective mandate, while those who do not prevail remain essential to the shared enterprise.
Victory in a party primary is collective, not personal.
The primaries matter chiefly because of their capacity to position the party to regain political power and to revisit policy initiatives that have shaped Ghana’s governance and economic direction in previous administrations.
Qualities required
Within the current field are individuals of experience and ability, each capable of contributing meaningfully to national leadership.
The decisive question, however, concerns suitability for the present moment.
Ghana operates within a complex global environment marked by economic uncertainty, technological change, security pressures and rising social expectations.
Effective leadership today demands intellectual depth, practical judgment, administrative competence, emotional balance and the capacity to communicate clearly with a diverse citizenry.
A prospective leader must, therefore, demonstrate pragmatic and implementable ideas, sound academic grounding and the ability to innovate.
Equally important are personal discipline, accessibility and an inclusive disposition that inspires trust across regions and social groups.
These qualities align closely with the mission of the Busia Institute for Rural and Democratic Development, which promotes thoughtful leadership, decentralised development and democratic accountability as foundations of national progress.
Delegates do not merely select a candidate; they shape the moral tone of the party’s future. That responsibility demands restraint and judgment.
Credible process
The Presidential Elections Committee of the NPP deserves commendation for its efforts to uphold transparency and fairness.
Clear rules, credible procedures and even-handed administration enhance the legitimacy of the process and reinforce confidence among party members and the wider public.
Such institutional diligence reflects international best practices in democratic party management.
Conversely, any candidate or supporter whose conduct undermines the process through violence, misinformation or deliberate obstruction inflicts harm, not only on the party but on the democratic culture of the nation.
Any conduct that undermines a credible electoral process injures more than a political party; it weakens public confidence in democratic institutions.
History records such moments with little generosity.
Statesmanship
As delegates prepare to vote, perspective remains essential.
The immediate contest will pass, but its consequences will shape the party’s fortunes and Ghana’s political direction.
A smooth, credible and dignified primary election will strengthen the NPP’s claim to leadership and contribute positively to democratic consolidation.
Ultimately, this moment calls for statesmanship in the service of party, country and constitutional democracy.
The writer is the Executive Director, Busia Institute for Rural and Democratic Development (BIRDD)
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