Former Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has urged Ghanaians and members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to embrace unity, strong democratic institutions, and inclusive leadership as the country enters 2026.
In his New Year message, Dr. Bawumia reflected on Ghana’s state of affairs one year into President John Dramani Mahama’s administration. He congratulated the President on completing his first year in office and called for sustained commitment to peace, stability, and national cohesion.
Dr. Bawumia expressed concern over Ghana’s decline in the 2025 Global Peace Index, where the country dropped six places globally to 61st, and from fourth to seventh in sub-Saharan Africa. He attributed the decline to growing security challenges and unrest in some parts of the country.
He stressed the need to protect the independence of democratic institutions, warning that their erosion threatens public trust. As an example, he cited the controversial removal of Ghana’s third female Chief Justice, describing it as a development that has weakened confidence in institutional governance.
“When institutions are weakened, democracy is weakened. When institutions are politicized, trust is lost,” Dr. Bawumia stated.
Turning his attention to the NPP, ahead of the party’s flagbearer race for the 2028 general elections, Dr. Bawumia called for unity, discipline, and service-driven leadership. He urged party members to prioritize ideas and vision over personal attacks, cautioning that internal divisions only benefit political opponents.
He reaffirmed his commitment to rebuilding the party and restoring public confidence, assuring Ghanaians that NPP Minority Members of Parliament will continue to hold the government accountable while advocating for policies that support youth development, education, healthcare, and economic opportunity.
Looking ahead, Dr. Bawumia outlined a vision of a united Ghana where ethnic and religious differences are set aside, democratic institutions are strengthened, and governance works for all citizens.
He reiterated his readiness to lead the NPP into the next election and, with the support of Ghanaians, serve as the country’s next President.
Dr. Bawumia concluded by wishing Ghanaians a prosperous 2026, calling for renewed hope, collective effort, and faith in the nation’s shared destiny.
