Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the flagbearer of Ghana's New Patriotic Party (NPP), has stated that businesses in Ghana are struggling with high costs despite the stability of the Cedi. He made this statement during the NPP's conference in Kumasi on October 3, 2026. According to Bawumia, Ghanaians continue to face a high cost of living, contrary to expectations that a stable currency would ease economic pressures.
Bawumia criticized the current administration, led by former President Mahama, for failing to fulfill its promises, including creating jobs and implementing its 24-hour economy policy. He noted that nearly two years into office, the government has not implemented the policy, which was promised to operate with a 1:3:3 shift. This, he said, has left youth in search of jobs disillusioned.
The NPP is currently holding its National Delegates Congress and national officers' elections in Kumasi. The party has proposed and adopted a number of constitutional amendments for consideration at the congress. Bawumia, in his address, urged all aspirants to accept the results in good faith. He also emphasized that today's event marks the beginning of a glorious chapter for the NPP as it elects its national executives ahead of the 2028 general elections.
Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin also spoke at the conference, urging the NPP to boldly criticize and hold the Mahama government accountable without fear of arrest and intimidation. He stated that the NPP owes it a duty to hold the government accountable for its decisions. Afenyo-Markin described Bawumia as a doer and problem solver.
Former President John Agyekum Kufuor, in a video message played during the conference, stated that the people of Ghana are yearning for the NPP to lead the country to prosperity and transformation. He appealed to party members to select national executive committee members who will enable the party to regain the confidence of Ghanaians.
Former President Akufo-Addo expressed optimism that with God's guidance, the NPP will emerge victorious in 2028, with Dr. Bawumia as the leader. The party's national executives elections are a crucial step towards the 2028 general elections.
The conference and elections come at a critical time as the NPP seeks to reorganize and strengthen its base ahead of future elections. Key stakeholders, including Bawumia, Afenyo-Markin, and former Presidents Kufuor and Akufo-Addo, have emphasized the need for unity and a strong leadership to guide the party to success.
Key points
- Despite Cedi stability, Ghanaian businesses face high operational costs.
- NPP criticizes the Mahama administration for failing to fulfill job creation and economic policy promises.
- The NPP holds its national executives elections in Kumasi, marking a step towards the 2028 general elections.
