Christopher Arthur, former Parliamentary Candidate for Agona West, has publicly endorsed Bryan Acheampong for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) leadership, describing him as a “unifier” whose approach to handling dissenting voices sets him apart from other political leaders.
Christopher Arthur, who was previously a visible member of the Young Lawyers for Bawumia group, announced his support for Bryan Acheampong in a series of radio interviews, marking a significant shift in allegiance that has sparked conversations within NPP circles about loyalty and strategy ahead of the 2028 elections.
Speaking to journalists, Christopher Arthur explained his decision was based on personal observations of Bryan Acheampong’s character and leadership style. He praised the former Food and Agriculture Minister’s ability to engage constructively with those who oppose his ideas.
“It’s my personal decision because I have followed Bryan Acheampong’s way of doing things and he is a unifier,” Christopher Arthur said during the interviews. “The fact that he the lawyer opposed Bryan Acheampong’s ideas at an open forum and Bryan Acheampong still took steps to engage him and share his vision with him is commendable.”
Christopher Arthur recounted a specific incident where he had publicly disagreed with Bryan Acheampong’s position, noting that whilst most people would have been unforgiving in such circumstances, Bryan Acheampong chose to reach out and engage in meaningful dialogue instead.
“Bryan Acheampong’s behaviour towards people who had dissenting opinions is worthy of emulation,” Christopher Arthur remarked, highlighting this as a key factor in his decision to switch support.
The endorsement comes at a crucial time for the NPP as the party begins positioning for the 2028 general elections. Christopher Arthur, who successfully defeated the incumbent Member of Parliament for Agona West to secure the NPP candidacy for the 2024 elections, brings considerable grassroots support and legal expertise to Bryan Acheampong’s potential campaign.
His defection from the Bawumia camp has raised questions about the shifting dynamics within the party and the appeal of Bryan Acheampong’s unifying message to younger party members and professionals.
The move signals growing momentum for Bryan Acheampong, who has been building support across various constituencies within the NPP. Political observers suggest that Christopher Arthur’s endorsement could encourage other young professionals and lawyers within the party to reconsider their allegiances.
As the NPP prepares for internal reorganisation following the 2024 elections, the battle for hearts and minds within the party appears to be intensifying, with unity and inclusiveness emerging as key themes in the early stages of the leadership contest.
Christopher Arthur’s public backing of Bryan Acheampong represents more than just a simple change of support; it embodies a broader conversation about the kind of leadership the NPP needs to remain competitive and united in the years ahead.