NDC Targeted Chairman Wontumi More Than Dr. Bawumia – Prof. Kusi Appiah Explains NPP's Election Loss
In the aftermath of the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) defeat in the 2024 general elections, renowned political analyst and lecturer, Prof. Kusi Appiah, has shed light on one of the key strategies deployed by the National Democratic Congress (NDC). Speaking in an exclusive interview, Prof. Appiah stated that the NDC’s focused attacks on Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, played a more significant role in the NPP's loss than their direct targeting of Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.
According to Prof. Appiah, the NDC adopted a calculated approach that sought to undermine Wontumi’s influence in the Ashanti Region, the NPP’s stronghold. The strategy involved intense media campaigns, allegations of mismanagement, and efforts to discredit his leadership in the region. "The NDC understood the importance of the Ashanti Region to the NPP's electoral fortunes. Instead of focusing solely on Dr. Bawumia as the party's flagbearer, they strategically targeted Chairman Wontumi, knowing that weakening his influence would have ripple effects on the party's overall performance," Prof. Appiah explained.
A Strategic Weakening of the NPP Base
The political scientist noted that while Dr. Bawumia was a formidable candidate with a strong national appeal, the NDC’s emphasis on regional politics proved effective. “Chairman Wontumi has been a key figure in mobilizing the Ashanti Region for the NPP over the years. By focusing on him, the NDC managed to sow seeds of doubt and discontent among the party's base,” Prof. Appiah observed.
The Ashanti Region, traditionally known as the NPP's 'world bank,' witnessed a notable decline in voter turnout and a shift in loyalty among some key constituencies. Analysts believe this was a direct result of the NDC’s targeted messaging, which portrayed Wontumi as out of touch with the region’s developmental needs.
Neglect of Key Issues
Prof. Appiah also pointed out that the NPP’s leadership may have underestimated the impact of these attacks. “Instead of rallying behind Chairman Wontumi to counter the narratives, the NPP seemed more focused on national campaigns, leaving their regional structures vulnerable. This allowed the NDC to gain a foothold in an area they’ve historically struggled to dominate,” he remarked.
Furthermore, he added that the Ashanti Region’s economic challenges, coupled with what some perceived as Wontumi's inability to address grassroots concerns, amplified the NDC’s criticisms. This contributed to voter apathy and a reduced margin of victory for the NPP in their stronghold.
Lessons for the NPP
Prof. Appiah concluded by urging the NPP to reassess their campaign strategies, particularly at the regional level. “Elections are won at the grassroots. It’s not just about having a popular flagbearer; it’s about ensuring that your structures and key regional leaders are fortified against external attacks,” he advised.
The 2024 elections have once again highlighted the importance of regional politics in shaping national outcomes. As the NPP reflects on their loss, the role of Chairman Wontumi and the Ashanti Region’s underwhelming performance will undoubtedly be key points of discussion in their post-election analysis.
The full interview with Prof. Kusi Appiah is available for viewing online.
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