By Ebenezer De-Gaulle
The New Patriotic Party (NPP) goes to the polls today, Saturday, January 31st, to elect its flagbearer ahead of the 2028 general elections, in what officials describe as one of the largest and most consequential internal contests in the party’s history.
Over 211,000 accredited delegates are expected to cast ballots nationwide. Voting will take place across all 16 regions, at the party’s national headquarters, and at selected diaspora centers. The Electoral Commission is supervising the exercise under tight security, with police deployed to maintain order.
Five aspirants are vying for the slot to lead the party into the next national polls: Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, Dr. Bryan Acheampong, Mahamudu Bawumia, Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, and Kwabena Agyei Agyepong.
Party leaders have urged delegates to uphold discipline, unity and peaceful competition. They reiterated a ban on vigilantes and “machomen,” warning that violations could attract sanctions.
The electorate comprises 211,849 delegates drawn from constituencies, regions, national officers, party elders and recognized external branches. The figure reflects adjustments for deceased members and forfeitures.
Greater Accra and Ashanti represent the largest voting blocs, with more than 40,000 and 36,000 delegates respectively. Eastern, Central and Western regions follow. Analysts say turnout and voting patterns in these areas could prove decisive.
Polls are scheduled to open early in the morning, at 7am and close in the afternoon. Counting will be conducted at the centers before results are transmitted to the national collation hub.
The winner will immediately face the task of reorganizing the party, healing divisions and crafting a national message ahead of the 2028 campaign.
Historically, commanding victories in NPP primaries have translated into stronger national campaigns, while close races have required extensive reconciliation efforts.
Civil society groups,the media and party observers are monitoring the process to ensure transparency. On the eve of the vote, senior figures appealed to delegates to act according to conscience and party interest, and urged supporters to remain calm regardless of the outcome.
As ballots are cast today, all eyes are on the NPP as it takes a crucial step toward defining its leadership and future direction.