Former Vice President and New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential hopeful, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, has alleged that the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) is actively campaigning against his candidature in the party’s upcoming presidential primaries.
Dr Bawumia, who was the NPP’s running mate in the 2016 general election, claimed the NDC remains unsettled by his performance in that campaign, which contributed to the party’s victory over then-President John Dramani Mahama and the NDC.
Addressing NPP delegates ahead of the January 31 presidential primaries, Dr Bawumia said the 2016 campaign left deep resentment for him within NDC ranks.
“The 2016 campaign was brutal. Because of that campaign, NDC people dislike me,” he told delegates. “When they hear my name, they will insult me, but I will not mind them.”
Dr Bawumia further alleged that the NDC would prefer any candidate but him to emerge as flagbearer of the ruling party, and is therefore subtly pushing delegates to reject his bid.
“Are you aware that for the January 31 election we are going into, the NDC does not want you to vote for me? I hope you are aware,” he said. “They want you to vote for someone else.”
He cited recent commentary by NPP stalwart Nana Akomea to caution delegates against allowing the opposition to influence their choice of candidate.
“Just like Nana Akomea said, you are going to play a football match with someone. Is it that opponent who should choose your striker or goalkeeper for you? Will you support that?” he quizzed, urging delegates to remain resolute and make their own decision in the primaries.
Dr Bawumia is among the leading contenders in the NPP’s presidential race as the party seeks a successor to President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo ahead of the 2028 general election.
Source: www.Kumasimail.com
