Since the return to multiparty democracy in 1992, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has contested every presidential election, fielding just four flagbearers over 34 years. Each candidate has played a defining role in shaping the party’s ideology, fortunes, and place in Ghana’s political history.
Prof. Albert Adu Boahen (1992)
The NPP’s first presidential candidate in the Fourth Republic was renowned historian and academic, Prof. Albert Adu Boahen. He led the party into the landmark 1992 elections after years of military rule.
Though he lost to Jerry John Rawlings, Adu Boahen is widely credited with restoring competitive politics and laying the intellectual and democratic foundation of the NPP.
John Agyekum Kufuor (1996, 2000, 2004)
After the 1992 defeat, the NPP turned to John Agyekum Kufuor. He contested the 1996 election unsuccessfully but returned stronger in 2000, winning the presidency and ending Rawlings’ long hold on power. Kufuor went on to serve two terms (2001–2009), overseeing major economic and democratic reforms and firmly establishing the NPP as a governing party.
Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo (2008, 2012, 2016, 2020)
Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo became the party’s third presidential candidate, first contesting in 2008. After narrow losses in 2008 and 2012, he secured victory in 2016 and was re-elected in 2020, serving two terms as president.
His tenure has been marked by flagship policies such as Free Senior High School and a strong emphasis on Ghana Beyond Aid.
Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia (2024)
In 2024, the NPP presented its fourth presidential candidate: former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia. An economist by training, Bawumia’s candidacy marked a generational shift for the party and marked the first time the NPP chose a candidate from northern Ghana.
His campaign focused on digitalisation, economic transformation, and continuity with reform.
A rare continuity in leadership choices
Over more than three decades, the NPP’s reliance on only four presidential candidates reflects an unusual level of continuity in Ghanaian politics. From Adu Boahen’s pioneering role, through Kufuor’s consolidation, Akufo-Addo’s reform agenda, to Bawumia’s bid to chart a new course, each candidate represents a distinct chapter in the party’s evolving story.
5 contest NPP race
The presidential elections committee of the NPP has confirmed that five aspirants have successfully submitted their completed nomination forms ahead of the party’s upcoming presidential primary slated for January 31, 2026.
The Committee announced that the following individuals, who had earlier picked up nomination forms, have now officially filed to contest:
- Ing. Kwabena Agyei Agyepong
- Kennedy Ohene Agyapong
- Dr Bryan Acheampong
- Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia
- Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum
As the party prepares to elect its flagbearer on January 31, 2026, for the 2028 general elections, who leads the party?
