The Founder and Leader of the Union Government (UG), Mr. Akwasi Addai Odike, has called on delegates of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to elect Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum as the party’s flag bearer for the 2028 general elections, describing him as the most credible, competent and transformational figure among the likely contenders.
Addressing journalists in Kumasi on Tuesday, Mr. Odike, though not a member of the NPP, argued that the choice of presidential candidates by Ghana’s major political parties should be treated as a national issue due to its far-reaching implications for the country’s future.
“Even though I will be contesting in the 2028 elections, I strongly believe that every political party must field its best candidate to raise the standard of political discourse and leadership in Ghana,” he stated.
Mr. Akwasi Odike praised Dr. Adutwum’s performance as Minister of Education, noting his integrity, bold reforms and visionary leadership style.
He highlighted Dr. Adutwum’s key role in the promotion of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education, as well as Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), describing these as clear indicators of his capacity to lead the nation effectively.
“If Dr Adutwum could transform Ghana’s education sector as a minister, imagine the broader impact he could make as President,” Mr Odike remarked.
The UG founder also expressed concern about the growing monetisation of Ghana’s political landscape, particularly in the internal primaries of the major parties. He warned that the dominance of money in influencing delegate votes could result in the selection of less competent and self-serving candidates.
“I’ve observed how various factions in the NPP are pushing their candidates, and it is my hope that money will not be the ultimate decider. Ghana’s future rests on the quality of leadership we choose today,” he cautioned.
He added that the selection of a presidential candidate should not be seen solely through a partisan lens but rather as a national decision that deserves the input and concern of all well-meaning Ghanaians.
“Whoever emerges as the flag bearer of either the NPP or the NDC stands a real chance of becoming the next President of Ghana. We must all pay close attention to how these leaders are chosen,” the UG founder stressed.
He concluded by urging NPP delegates to prioritise competence, character, and vision in their choice of flag bearer, insisting that Dr. Adutwum embodies all these qualities and remains the party’s best chance for victory and national development in the 2028 elections.
