Speculation that Dr Bryan Acheampong’s impressive showing in the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) flagbearer race could automatically boost his chances of becoming Dr Mahamudu Bawumia’s running mate has been firmly rejected by the flagbearer’s camp.
Speaking on Channel1 TV on Sunday, Dennis Miracles Aboagye, an aide to Dr Bawumia, clarified that placing second in the internal contest is not a consideration in the selection of a vice-presidential candidate. He stressed that the choice of a running mate lies solely with the flagbearer, working in consultation with the party’s National Council.
Mr Aboagye’s remarks come amid increasing debate, particularly on social media, suggesting that Dr Acheampong’s performance in the race has strengthened his prospects of being chosen as Dr Bawumia’s partner for the 2028 general elections.
According to him, while multiple factors are weighed in deciding on a running mate, a candidate’s ranking in the flagbearer contest is not among them. He explained that finishing second, third, or in any other position does not confer an advantage in the selection process.
He further noted that all individuals who contested alongside Dr Bawumia remain potential candidates for the running mate position, but not on the basis of how they placed in the race. Rather, eligibility is determined by broader considerations linked to the party’s electoral strategy.
Mr Aboagye reiterated that the final decision will be made by Dr Bawumia in collaboration with the NPP’s National Council and will be guided by key indicators aimed at maximizing the party’s chances of winning the 2028 elections. He emphasized that, when the time comes, these indicators will help ensure the selection of the most suitable candidate to support Dr Bawumia and deliver the desired electoral outcome.
Dr Bawumia was officially declared winner of the NPP flagbearer contest by the Electoral Commission after securing 56.48 per cent of the total valid votes, earning him the party’s mandate to lead it into the 2028 general elections. His nearest rival, former Assin Central Member of Parliament Kennedy Agyapong, finished second with 46,554 votes, accounting for 23.76 per cent of the votes cast.