A growing groundswell of support among New Patriotic Party (NPP) delegates in the Ashanti Region is propelling Chairman Odeneho Kwaku Appiah (COKA) into pole position to take over from current Regional Chairman Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi.
Delegates who spoke at the recent NPP National Delegates Conference in Accra say COKA is fast emerging as the consensus candidate, with some predicting he might even run unopposed due to his experience, temperament, and unifying appeal.
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From defeat to dominance?
COKA’s rise comes just two years after he was defeated by Chairman Wontumi in the hotly contested 2022 Ashanti Regional Chairmanship race.
Despite the loss, the former constituency chairman and regional financial secretary maintained a strong presence in the region’s political circles, often calling for party unity and post-election reconciliation.
Now, many believe the tide has turned
“COKA has shown he is not bitter about the past. He has continued to engage the grassroots and our elders, and he has supported the party even outside leadership,” a delegate from Mampong said.
“He is not just experienced; he is a man of peace. That is what the party needs now.”
Experience and business acumen
With over two decades of service to the NPP in the region—first as a constituency chairman and then as a regional executive—COKA brings deep institutional knowledge to the table. Delegates point to his dual identity as a seasoned political operative and successful businessman.
As Director of Longford Royal Group Limited, COKA’s private-sector background is seen as an asset in a region that remains the NPP’s political stronghold and economic heartbeat.
“COKA combines the wisdom of an old hand and the fresh energy of a businessman,” one delegate noted.
“He knows the terrain, and he knows how to get results.”
A call for unity
COKA has frequently spoken about the need to unite the party after the 2024 general elections, in which the NPP suffered setbacks in some strongholds, despite narrowly retaining power.
His message of reconciliation has resonated with delegates, many of whom blame internal divisions for the party’s shrinking vote margins in the region.
“He has always emphasised unity and forgiveness among party members,” another delegate said.
“We believe he is the right man to bring all factions together and rebuild for victory in 2028.”
COKA is also said to be enjoying the backing of several notable party leaders in the Ashanti Region who view his leadership as key to repairing strained relationships between the regional office and local party structures.
Momentum builds ahead of regional polls
While the formal timeline for regional elections has not yet been announced, COKA’s name is already dominating discussions in constituency meetings and WhatsApp platforms across the region.
Many insiders believe Chairman Wontumi’s influence has waned following criticisms over his leadership style, alleged sidelining of party elders, and the declining enthusiasm among grassroots supporters.
Wontumi, who famously won the 2022 contest against COKA in a polarising race, has not publicly declared his intention to seek re-election.
However, party operatives believe any attempt at a comeback would face stiff resistance, given the current mood.
“People feel it’s time for a new direction,” said a constituency youth organiser. “And that new direction is COKA.”
As the NPP begins to reposition itself for the 2028 general elections, many believe the Ashanti Region must lead the charge with a reinvigorated and respected team.
For many delegates, COKA symbolises both continuity and renewal—an experienced hand who can also bridge generational divides and mend broken relationships.
For now, the wind seems to be blowing in COKA’s favour. Whether he runs unopposed or faces competition, his name is likely to define the next Ashanti Regional chairmanship race. And, if his support base continues to grow, Chairman Odeneho Kwaku Appiah could soon become a central figure in the NPP’s path to power in 2028.
