New Patriotic Party (NPP) National Chairmanship aspirant Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has withdrawn from the party’s national chairmanship contest, citing his current personal circumstances and a desire not to place an additional burden on the party.
In a statement dated Monday, August 24, 2026, Chairman Wontumi said the decision followed several nights of prayer, careful reflection and consultations with his family, legal team, NPP elders, campaign team and trusted supporters.
He admitted that the decision was difficult and not what he personally wanted, but said he had concluded that his circumstances should not distract the NPP as the party works to rebuild after its electoral defeat.
“This is not the decision my heart desired, but sometimes, true love requires us to release what we deeply want in order to protect what we love even more,” he said.
Wontumi Puts NPP Rebuilding Ahead of Political Ambition
Chairman Wontumi said he had dedicated many years to the NPP and regarded the party as his family and home. He stressed that he would not allow his personal situation or political ambitions to interfere with the party’s preparations for the 2028 general elections.
“I would rather carry this pain quietly than allow the party I love to suffer because of me,” he stated.
The former Ashanti Regional NPP Chairman also expressed appreciation to his supporters across Ghana’s 16 regions, including constituency and regional executives, Members of Parliament, former government officials, party communicators, electoral area coordinators, polling station executives, youth and women’s groups and diaspora supporters.
He acknowledged the sacrifices made by members of his campaign, including supporters who he said faced ridicule, intimidation and personal attacks because of their backing for his chairmanship bid.
Chairman Wontumi Maintains His Innocence
Chairman Wontumi, who is currently facing legal challenges, reiterated his position that he is innocent and expressed confidence that justice would ultimately prevail.
“I have not surrendered, and I will never surrender in the pursuit of truth and justice,” he said.
He also appealed to his supporters to avoid creating divisions within the NPP because of his situation. He urged them not to insult or attack individuals on his behalf, target fellow aspirants or abandon the party.
“If you truly love me, then remain loyal to the tradition I have spent my life serving,” he stated.
Wontumi Endorses Support for Bawumia Ahead of 2028
Chairman Wontumi called on his supporters to continue supporting NPP flagbearer Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, emphasizing that the party would require the collective efforts of its constituencies, polling station executives, communicators, young people and other members to rebuild and return to political power.
He urged NPP members to unite, put aside political bitterness and strengthen the party ahead of the 2028 elections.
According to him, his current circumstances may prevent him from actively participating in party activities, but they would not diminish his commitment to the NPP.
“My present circumstances may prevent me from standing before you physically, but they cannot imprison my love for the NPP. They cannot imprison my faith. They cannot imprison the truth. And they can never imprison the will of God,” he said.
Wontumi Calls Withdrawal a ‘Painful Pause’
Chairman Wontumi described his decision to withdraw from the NPP national chairmanship race as a “painful pause” rather than the end of his political journey.
“This is not goodbye. It is not the end of the journey. It is only a painful pause in a much greater story that God Himself is still writing,” he said.
He concluded by urging his supporters to remain strong, united and loyal to the NPP, while continuing to support Dr Bawumia.
“My body may be confined today, but my heart remains with you. And if it is the will of God, we shall meet again; not in sorrow, but in joy; not in defeat, but in victory,” he added.
Source: newsthemegh.com