'Ghanaians rarely choose first-timers' - Bawumia banks on 2028 comeback

Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the 2024 NPP flagbearer, discussed his election loss. He believes it reflects a pattern in Ghana's political history.

The former Vice President noted that Ghanaians rarely vote for first-time candidates. He spoke to the Young Executive Forum (YEF) in London during his Thank You Tour. Dr. Bawumia expressed confidence about a comeback in 2028.

“I’m very optimistic about 2028,” he said. “I believe NPP will return to government.”

He cited historical trends to support his optimism. First-time presidential candidates often struggle to win elections in Ghana.

“Ghanaians want you to run more than once,” he explained. He referenced past presidents as examples of this trend.

John Agyekum Kufuor lost in 1996 but won in 2000. John Mills contested three times before winning in 2008. Nana Akufo-Addo also ran three times before his victory.

Dr. Bawumia mentioned John Mahama’s 2012 win as an exception. “Mahama’s win was an aberration,” he stated.

He explained that the NPP campaign was disrupted by President Mills’ death. This event gave the NDC an emotional advantage during the campaign.

“The NDC played funeral songs and mourning music,” he recalled. “We couldn’t attack them without seeming insensitive.”

Despite Mahama's success in 2012, he faced rejection in subsequent elections until returning in 2024 after three losses.

Dr. Bawumia acknowledged the shortcomings of the NPP campaign last year. “We didn’t get everything right,” he admitted, apologizing on behalf of the party.

He emphasized that mistakes have provided valuable lessons for future campaigns. “If we get another chance, I believe we will improve.”

Looking ahead to 2028, Dr. Bawumia sees a strategic opportunity for the NPP. He believes the opposition NDC may present a new candidate then.

“They’ve run out of choices with Mahama,” he noted, suggesting this gives them an edge.

“I believe we will have a significant advantage over their new candidate.”