Former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has called on members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to uphold decorum in the lead-up to the party’s presidential primary scheduled for January 2026.
Speaking on Wednesday, August 13, when over 490 youth organisers — including substantive and deputy youth leaders from constituencies nationwide — presented his nomination forms, Dr. Bawumia urged aspirants and their supporters to shun insults during the campaign.
“I want this flagbearership election to be conducted with decorum. We’re not in a campaign of insults, and we should not be in a campaign of insults. It should be about ideas. And that is what will capture the imagination of Ghanaians.
NPP Flagbearer hopefuls
“What ideas do we have? What are we bringing to the table? How are we going to solve the problems Ghanaians face? As a party, I admonish everybody, all the aspirants and our supporters, that let us focus on marketing or selling our respective aspirants,” he advised.
Dr. Bawumia cautioned that negative campaigning could damage the party and provide ammunition for its political opponents.
“When we bring down other people, we bring down the party. Our messages will be taken by our opponents, and they will use them against us.
“I will not, and you will never hear me insulting any aspirants. Because when this election is over, we have to contest a general election. And if we divide ourselves today, we will have difficulty in uniting for a general election tomorrow. So, let us begin the process with unity, and end with unity because that will bring victory in 2028.”
In a bold show of support, Hundreds of youth organisers of the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) on Wednesday, August 13, thronged the party’s headquarters in Accra to pick up presidential nomination forms on behalf of former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia.
The delegation, comprising constituency and regional youth organisers from across the country, arrived in coordinated NPP-branded attire, chanting party slogans and singing patriotic songs as they entered the premises.
some scenes from the ceremony
Addressing the media, Isaac Obeng, a youth organiser, described the occasion as both a celebration of young people and a significant political moment.
“Yesterday was International Youth Day, and as youth organisers and deputies from various constituencies, we believe we cannot remain idle in our constituencies without marking this remarkable day,” he said.
He explained that their visit to the party headquarters was more than symbolic. “We are here today to pick the form for our incoming president, Insha Allah, Dr Alhaji Mahamudu Bawumia. We believe this is a gift to him.”
Obeng emphasised the unity and enthusiasm among the youth, noting that representatives from numerous constituencies had come together to make the gesture.
“You can see here representatives of youth organisers from various constituencies who have come to pick this form, and from here we will move to his residence, his campaign office, where we will officially present the forms to him,” he noted.
The youth organiser expressed confidence in Dr Bawumia’s leadership, suggesting that the day could mark a turning point for Ghana.
“We know that, Insha Allah, this day is the day Ghana’s destiny will be rewritten. What the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has done and continues to do shows that the things Dr Alhaji Mahamudu Bawumia accomplished as Vice President are exactly what our country needs.”
On Tuesday, August 5, a group of New Patriotic Party (NPP) Members of Parliament picked up nomination forms on behalf of NPP presidential hopeful Kennedy Agyapong, ahead of the party’s presidential primaries scheduled for January 31, 2026.Source: Emmanuel Tetteh
According to one of the Aides of H. E. Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, “Dr. Bawumia despite inheriting an economic mess still mobilized more votes than any first-time NPP candidate except Akufo-Addo”.
The above statement is clearly a distortion of facts, as well as lack accuracy of proper scientific analysis of data.
First and foremost, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia as a 2024 Presidential candidate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) inherited the economic mess from:
1. Who?
2. Which government?
3. Which political party?
The NPP government of which Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia was the Vice-President and Head of Economic Management Team handed power to itself on 7th January 2021 after winning the 2020 general elections. So, in effect, it means that Dr. Bawumia inherited the economic mess from which source?
Razak KoJo Opoku (PhD)
Now, putting the facts forward regarding the electoral performance of first-time NPP candidates, it is NOT entirely true that, Dr. Bawumia mobilized more votes than any first-time NPP candidate except Akufo-Addo.
As a matter of fact, it is only Akufo-Addo that we can match his electoral performance to Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia because both of them contested the national presidential elections at the period when NPP was in government for 8 years (incumbent Presidential candidates) respectively.
Professor Albert Adu Boahen contested the 1992 Presidential election at the time UP Tradition has been in opposition for 20 years after the overthrown of Busia government in 1972.
NPP Flagbearer hopefuls
John Agyekum Kufuor contested the 1996 Presidential election at the time UP Tradition has been in opposition for 24 years after the overthrown of Busia government in 1972.
Electoral Performance of Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia in 2024 as a first-timer
Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia polled 4, 877, 611 votes based on:
1. Total Valid Votes of 11, 683, 483
Total Rejected Ballots of
247, 937
Total Votes Cast of
11, 931, 420
Total Valid Voters(Registered Voters) of
18, 774, 159
Voters Turnout of 63.9%
275 out of 276 Constituencies, with the Ablekuma North Constituency still outstanding.
John Mahama obtaining 6, 591, 790 votes
Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia lost the 2024 Presidential election
with votes difference of 1, 714, 179 between him and John Mahama.
Electoral Performance of Professor Adu Boahen in 1992 as a first-timer
Professor Adu Boahen polled 1, 204, 764 votes based on:
1. Total Valid Votes of 3, 978, 065
Total Rejected Ballots of
149, 811
Total Votes Cast of
4, 127, 876
Total Valid Voters(Registered Voters) of
8, 229, 902
Voters Turnout of
50.16%
200 Constituencies
Jerry John Rawlings obtaining 2, 323, 135 votes
Professor Albert Adu Boahen lost the 1992 presidential election with votes difference of 1, 118, 371 between him and Jerry John Rawlings.
Electoral Performance of John Agyekum Kufuor in 1996 as a first-timer
John Agyekum Kufuor polled 2, 834, 878 votes based on:
1. Total Valid Votes of 7, 145, 772
Total Rejected Ballots of
120, 921
Total Votes Cast of 7, 266, 693
Total Valid Voters(Registered Voters) of
9, 279, 605
Voters Turnout of 78.31%
200 Constituencies
Jerry John Rawlings obtaining 4, 099, 758 votes
John Agyekum Kufuor lost the 1996 Presidential election with votes difference of 1, 264, 880 between him and Jerry John Rawlings.
Unbiased Verdict
Based on the aforementioned facts and data, in terms of Raw Data or Actual Votes mobilized respectively for 2024, 1996, and 1992, it is NEVER true that Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia Mobilized more Votes than Professor Adu Boahen and John Agyekum Kufuor:
Professor Albert Adu Boahen lost 1992 presidential election with votes difference of 1, 118, 371, which is far less than Dr. Bawumia’s loss of 1, 714, 179, implying that 1, 714, 179 minus 1, 118, 371 = 595, 808 votes difference)
John Agyekum Kufuor lost the 1996 presidential election with votes difference of 1, 264, 880, which is far less than Dr. Bawumia’s loss of 1, 714, 179, implying that 1, 714, 179 minus 1, 264, 880 = 449, 299 votes difference
Correct and well learned Data Scientist or Data Analyst do not ONLY rely on percentages to draw conclusions. It is very serious erroneous assumption to compare Dr. Bawumia’s 41.75% in 2024 to Adu Boahen’s 30.29% in 1992, and John Kufuor’s 39.67% in 1996, and exclusively conclude that Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia mobilized more Votes than Professor Albert Adu Boahen and John Agyekum Kufuor. Raw data would always give you the raw and accurate performance of Candidates, not rating performance based on percentages.
Electoral Performance of Nana Akufo-Addo as a First-Timer
It is without doubt that, Nana Akufo-Addo did extremely well in the 2008 presidential election as a first-timer, losing the election with 40, 586 votes difference between him and Prof. John Evans Atta Mills. Impressively, Akufo-Addo also had 107 Parliamentary Seats out of 230 Seats, while the NDC had 116 Seats after the 2008 general election.
Comparing the Electoral Defeats of Mills, Mahama and Dr. Bawumia as First Time Vice-Presidents
It is very authoritative and essentially profound to conclude that both Professor Atta Mills, and John Mahama PERFORMED BETTER than Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia in presidential elections as sitting Vice-Presidents:
Mills LOST the 2000 presidential election with votes difference of 881,139 between him and John Agyekum Kufuor.
John Mahama WON the 2012 presidential election with a votes difference of 325, 863 between him and Nana Akufo-Addo.
Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia LOST the 2024 presidential election with votes difference of 1, 714,179 between him and John Mahama.
Conclusion
The dwindling fortunes of NPP simultaneously at the Presidential level and Parliamentary level after the 2024 general election should be a major concern to all true members of the Elephant Family.
We cannot continue to whitewash the magnitude of 2024 defeat by comparing 2024 defeat to 1992 and 1996 defeats of NPP at the periods when UP Tradition has been in opposition for 20-24years.
Our 2024 defeat is a shared responsibility, and our fight for 2028 general election should also be a shared responsibility. However, we need to present the preferred choice of the majority of Ghanaian people.
….Signed….
Razak Kojo Opoku(PhD)
Founding President of UP Tradition Institute
The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has announced that it will not field a candidate in the upcoming Tamale Central Parliamentary by-election, following the tragic death of the area’s Member of Parliament, Alhaji Hon. Dr. Murtala Mohammed, in the August 6 helicopter crash.
Dr. Murtala Mohammed was among eight individuals who lost their lives when a military Helicopter they were travelling in crashed in Adansi Akrofoum in the Ashanti Region.
His passing has created a vacancy in the Tamale Central seat, prompting preparations for a by-election in accordance with Article 112(5) of Ghana’s Constitution.
In a statement signed by NPP General Secretary Justin Kodua Frimpong, the party said the decision was taken during a National Steering Committee meeting held on Monday, August 11, 2025, at its national headquarters.
The resolution, made in line with Article 10(10)(1) of the NPP Constitution, was influenced by what the party described as the “circumstances under which the Tamale Central seat has become vacant” and the need to avoid deepening political divisions at a time of national mourning.
“The NPP is of the belief that it would be inhumane and unconscionable to subject the nation to a competitive process in search of a replacement for the departed MP,” the statement read.
“The tension and acrimony often associated with the conduct of by-elections in the country should be avoided.”
The party noted that the most fitting way to honour Dr. Murtala Mohammed and the other crash victims was not only to intensify the fight against illegal mining (galamsey) but also to ensure a peaceful and uncontentious process to replace the late MP.
“When the Electoral Commission of Ghana opens nominations for the Tamale Central by-election, the NPP will, in accord with the national interest, not take part in the contest,” the statement concluded.
Political observers say the NPP’s decision is a rare gesture in Ghana’s competitive political climate, potentially setting the stage for a consensus candidate or an uncontested by-election in the constituency.
A group of young party executives has picked up nomination forms on behalf of Dr. Bryan Acheampong for the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) flagbearership race.
The group visited the party’s national headquarters in Accra to complete the formalities before presenting the forms to Carlos Kingsley Ahenkorah, former Member of Parliament for Tema West and Campaign Manager for the Bryan Acheampong Campaign.
Receiving the forms at the campaign office, Mr. Ahenkorah described the gesture as a strong expression of trust and commitment to Dr. Acheampong’s leadership ambitions.
“This is not just about picking forms; it is about the future of the NPP and the future of Ghana,” he told the group. “When the youth take this initiative, it shows that they believe in a leader who can unite our party, deliver on his promises, and secure our electoral victory in 2028.”
He thanked the group and stressed that the campaign would focus on unity, competence, and delivering results for both party and country.
Some members of the delegation said they were inspired by Dr. Acheampong’s achievements in public service, highlighting his work in the agriculture sector and his reputation for discipline and effective leadership. They expressed confidence in his ability to lead the party to victory in the next general elections.
The presentation of the forms marks the official start of Dr. Acheampong’s participation in what is expected to be one of the most competitive internal races in the NPP’s history. Several high-profile contenders are expected to join the race, setting the stage for an intense campaign in the months ahead.
Party insiders say the move by the youth gives Dr. Acheampong early momentum, particularly among grassroots members who hold significant sway in internal elections. Political observers note that such grassroots mobilisation often signals a candidate’s organisational strength and appeal within the party base.
With nominations now open, attention will turn to how each contender positions themselves to win the confidence of delegates ahead of the party’s primaries in January 2026 Source:.Citi Newsroom
The Christian Praise International Centre (CPIC) has extended heartfelt condolences to the President and all citizens following last Wednesday’s tragic military helicopter crash at Adansi Akrofuom, near Obuasi, which claimed the lives of eight personnel engaged in the fight against illegal mining, locally known as galamsey.
A high powered CPIC delegation visited Jubilee House on Thursday to lay a floral tribute in honour of the fallen heroes and present a formal message of solidarity to President John Dramani Mahama . The team, led by Acting Chairman Apostle Seth Twum Barimah, conveyed the church’s deep grief and expressed unrelenting support for the bereaved families, the government, and the nation.
In its statement, CPIC described the tragedy as “a deeply saddening and irreplaceable loss” that has left a painful void in the hearts of many people. The deceased , including two Ministers of State and six others were praised for paying the ultimate price in the line of duty by safeguarding the country’s natural resources from destruction.
Speaking after the brief but solemn ceremony, Apostle Twum Barimah urged the country to unite in prayer for the families left behind and to honour the memory of the departed by continuing the fight against environmental degradation. He encouraged the public to draw inspiration from the courage and sacrifice of the fallen officers.
The CPIC leadership also prayed for divine mercy and peace for the nation, expressing hope that God will comfort the bereaved and strengthen the country in this period of mourning. They reaffirmed the biblical assurance that, one day, sorrow and tears will give way to eternal peace.
The August 6 tragedy has been described as one of the gravest setbacks in the county’s ongoing battle against galamsey. Many believe the loss of experienced officers and senior government officials spotlights both the dangers of the mission and the urgent need for national unity in safeguarding the country’s environment and resources.
The Asante Kingdom has been thrown into mourning following the passing of the Asantehemaa, Nana Konadu Yiadom III.
The Oyoko Family confirmed the passing of the second most powerful person in Asanteman to the Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II at an emergency Asanteman Traditional Council meeting on Monday.
Born Nana Ama Konadu, Nana Konadu Yiadom III was the 14th Asantehemaa and the biological sister of the current Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.
Nana Konadu Yiadom III
She became the Asantehemaa 8-years ago following the death of her mother, Nana Afia Kobi Serwaa Ampem II, the then Asantehemaa.
Nana Konadu Yiadom is highly respected for her loyalty and counsel, strength, and devotion to tradition, having played a critical role in the preservation of Asante culture as she guided Asanteman in support of the reign of her brother, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.
The Oyoko Family confirmed the death to the Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II
Her presence at the Manhyia Palace was not only a symbol of stability and unity within the royal family but also in the broader Asanteman.
Though details of her passing are scanty, family sources say Nana Konadu Yiadom III passed at the dawn of August 7, 2025.
The Manhyia Palace is expected to officially inform the general public and outline funeral arrangements after all traditional protocols, including all traditional rites preceding royalty death announcements, have been duly followed.Source: Nana Boakye Yiadom
Nana Konadu Yiadom III, Born in 1927 during a crucial period of Ashanti restoration, Nana Konadu Yiadom III has grown into one of the most revered and quietly influential figures in Ghana’s traditional leadership.
Her story is not just one of royal bloodline, but of prophecy, service, and a deep understanding of the unspoken power women hold in preserving tradition.
“Asantehemaa” refers to the Queen Mother of the Ashanti (Asante) people, a revered and influential leader within the Asante Kingdom. She plays a central role in the kingdom’s dual-gendered leadership system, serving alongside the Asantehene (King).
Rooted in royalty
Nana Konadu Yiadom III, known at birth as Nana Ama Konadu, and affectionately called Nana Panin, was born at the Benyaade Shrine in Merdan, Kwadaso, Kumasi.
Her birth came at a pivotal moment, as the Asante Confederacy was being restored to political significance.
She is the biological daughter of the late Nana Afia Kobi Serwaa Ampem II, who served as Asantehemaa from 1977 to 2016.
Her father, Opanin Kofi Fofie, known locally as Koofie or Keewuo, was a humble carpenter from Besease near Atimatim. Although she was separated from her mother while still breastfeeding, she was nurtured by her maternal aunt, Nana Afia Konadu, at Ashanti New Town (Ash-Town).
Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II and Asantehemaa Nana Konadu Yiadom III
No classroom, but rich wisdom
Despite not receiving formal education, Nana Konadu was immersed in rigorous informal training, rooted in tradition, womanhood, and domestic leadership.
She underwent traditional puberty rites (bragro) in her early teens alongside her niece Nana Abena Ansa. This, in many ways, marked the beginning of her lifelong journey of leadership.
She later married Opanin Kwame Boateng, a blacksmith from Aduman, Kumasi, and maintained a private yet principled lifestyle centered on humility, generosity, and strong family values.
A prophecy fulfilled
In the 1990s, a prophecy was delivered by spiritual priest Kwaku Firi Bosomfo through Baffour Akoto, a senior linguist of the Asantehene: Nana Konadu Yiadom III was destined to become the next Queen Mother.
It seemed distant then, but when her mother passed in 2016, the prophecy was fulfilled. On February 6, 2016, she was enstooled as the 14th Asantehemaa.
Asantehemaa Nana Konadu Yiadom with Otumfuo Nana Osei Tutu II
Her role isn’t symbolic. As Queen Mother, she nominates the Asantehene (King), provides counsel to the royal court, and serves as the moral compass of the Ashanti Kingdom.
She also stands as a central figure in protecting the matrilineal lineage and ensuring justice in traditional matters.
A reign marked by compassion
Over the years, Nanahemaa has quietly but powerfully championed social causes, particularly women’s health and child welfare. To mark her 5th anniversary as Queen Mother, she made a significant donation to the Mother-Baby Unit (MBU), Pediatric Emergency Care Unit (PICU), and Pediatric Emergency Unit (PEU) at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital and Manhyia Government District Hospital.
She covered the medical expenses of new mothers, setting an example of royal service through action.
In addition, she launched an annual campaign promoting breastfeeding among Ghanaian mothers, a culturally rooted but health-focused initiative.
In recognition of her generosity and impact, the Saviour Church named a school in her honour: the Nana Konadu Saviour School.
Leading with grace and justice
Nana Konadu Yiadom III is respected not only for her lineage but for the fair, calm, and wise manner in which she settles disputes. People from all walks of life approach her with confidence, knowing her judgment comes with both warmth and integrity.
Her presence at the Manhyia Palace, the heart of the Ashanti Kingdom, represents more than tradition.
It reflects a legacy of maternal power, lived wisdom, and cultural preservation. She embodies what it means to lead without seeking attention, to influence without noise, and to rule with a mother’s touch.
A legacy in motion
As Nana Konadu Yiadom III continues her reign, her legacy grows not from declarations, but from everyday decisions and acts of kindness. In a society that often celebrates loud authority, she stands as proof that quiet power can shape kingdoms.
The Golden Stool may rest with the Asantehene, but its rhythm beats just as strongly in the heart of the Queen Mother.
Here’s a table analysis of the biography of Nana Konadu Yiadom III, Asantehemaa, organized into clear categories for easy reference and understanding:
Table: Analytical Breakdown of Nana Konadu Yiadom III’s Biography
Category
Details
Full Title
Nana Konadu Yiadom III
Role/Position
14th Asantehemaa (Queen Mother of the Ashanti Kingdom)
Date of Enstoolment
February 6, 2016
Traditional Function
– Nominates Asantehene
– Advises the royal court
– Oversees women’s affairs and succession
– Custodian of Ashanti culture
Birth Name
Nana Ama Konadu
Other Names
Nana Panin / Naa Panin
Year of Birth
1927
Age
98 years old (as of 2025)
Place of Birth
Benyaade Shrine, Merdan, Kwadaso, Kumasi
Mother
Nana Afia Kobi Serwaa Ampem II (Asantehemaa from 1977–2016)
Father
Opanin Kofi Fofie (a.k.a. Koofie or Keewuo), a carpenter from Besease near Atimatim, Kumasi
Guardian (from infancy)
Nana Afia Konadu (mother’s sister, raised her at Ashanti New Town – Ash-Town)
Education
No formal education; received high-quality informal training in traditional leadership and domestic life
Puberty Rites
Underwent bragro (puberty initiation) with niece Nana Abena Ansa
Marital Status
Married to Opanin Kwame Boateng
Spouse’s Profession
Blacksmith from Aduman, Kumasi
Prophecy of Reign
Foretold in the mid-1990s by Kwaku Firi Bosomfo via Baffour Akoto
Religious Belief
Deeply religious; committed to God’s work
Key Personality Traits
Calm, fair, kind-hearted, hardworking, humble, unassuming, accommodating, just
Conflict Resolution Record
All cases brought before her have been resolved fairly and amicably
Philanthropy – Healthcare
Paid medical bills and donated supplies to:
– Mother-Baby Unit (MBU)
– Pediatric Emergency Care Unit (PICU)
– PEU at KATH & Manhyia
Advocacy
Promotes breastfeeding through an annual campaign
Legacy in Education
Honoured with the naming of Nana Konadu Saviour School by the Saviour Church
Seat of Power
Manhyia Palace, Kumasi (official residence of Asantehemaa and Asantehene)
Cultural Importance
Represents the maternal arm of Ashanti governance; guardian of matrilineal succession and traditional justice
Anniversary Celebration
Marked her 5th anniversary in 2021 with large-scale donations and social interventions
The Private Universities Founders Association (PUFA), Ghana, has expressed its deepest sympathies to the government and families of eight notable Ghanaians who lost their lives in a tragic helicopter crash in the Adansi Akrofuom District, Ashanti Region, on August 6, 2025.
The deceased include Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Minister for Defence; Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, Minister for Environment, Science and Technology; and Dr. Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), among others.
In a statement signed by its President, Dr. Paul Fynn, PUFA described the loss as a national tragedy that has robbed the country of dedicated public servants who have devoted their lives to its progress.
PUFA stands in solidarity with the government and people of Ghana during this time of mourning, praying for the peaceful repose of the souls of the departed and for strength, comfort, and healing for their families and all those affected by the incident.
The association’s condolences reflect the widespread shock and grief that has gripped the nation following the tragic incident.
