The Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has called on party delegates in the Western Region to prioritize competence and strategic acumen over fluency in English when electing the next national officers.
Speaking to Western Regional executives as part of his campaign to become National Chairman, Wontumi argued that the party’s current circumstances demand a leader who embodies the grassroots spirit and possesses the tenacity to reclaim political power in 2028.
“This election is not for the bookish; it is for those who are tried and tested as grassroots workers,” Wontumi told the gathering. “We need someone who is highly popular and ready to work tirelessly to secure victory for the party.”
The outincumbent Ashanti Regional Chairman urged party faithful to look beyond academic certificates and assess candidates based on their tangible contributions and capabilities. “Don’t judge me based on my certificate; judge me based on my competency,” he asserted.
Wontumi positioned himself as the antidote to the “hopelessness” and “lost direction” he claims has afflicted the party following its 2024 electoral defeat. He framed his candidacy as a vehicle to restore faith among the rank and file.
“What we can offer now to members of the party and Ghanaians in general is hope and reassurance. I am built for the battle ahead,” he declared, calling on the Western Region to throw its weight behind his ambition.
Highlighting his extensive track record, Wontumi noted that his decades of service—from a two-term Constituency Chairman to an unprecedented three-term Regional Chairman in the party’s stronghold—have uniquely prepared him for the national task. He assured supporters that he would not compromise on any initiative aimed at boosting the party’s appeal to the electorate.
He further outlined his vision for the role, drawing a clear distinction between his responsibilities and those of the General Secretary. “As National Chairman, my work is at the various constituencies. The General Secretary will take charge at the headquarters, but for me, my work is with the people to ensure we bring in every vote come 2028.”
Addressing the party’s current standing, Wontumi stated that the post-election persecution he has faced has only emboldened his resolve. “What I am passing through after our electoral defeat in 2024, in the hands of the NDC, has really emboldened me to join you and work together to make Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia the next president in 2028,” he added.
Earlier in the program, the Western Regional Chairman of the NPP, Nana Francis Ndede Siah, endorsed Wontumi’s bid, describing him as a “pure grassroots man” who deserves the party’s full support.
