Speaking to delegates in Koforidua on Tuesday, Otchere Baafi described the upcoming primary as one of the most consequential internal contests in the party’s history. 

He stressed that the NPP requires a well-prepared and nationally recognised candidate to lead its comeback bid in the 2028 general election.

“I'm saying that the 31st January election is not a joke. It's a crucial election and we need an experienced person. We need someone who has been well-marketed and is well known by Ghanaians. That person is Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia,” he said.

Five candidates are contesting the NPP flagbearer race. They are Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, Dr Bryan Acheampong, Ing. Kwabena Agyei Agyepong and Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum.

Otchere Baafi praised Dr Bawumia’s longstanding loyalty to the party, recalling his dedicated service “during difficult moments” and noting that the former Vice President remains the NPP’s most formidable candidate for the national polls.

He emphasised that the responsibility for winning elections begins at the local level and urged grassroots members to mobilise effectively. 

“Politics is local, so the responsibility is on all of us at the polling station level. It is a collective responsibility for all. So let us all come together, work hard at the local level for the NPP to reclaim power. And the only person who can help us to win easily is experienced and well marketed Dr Bawumia,” he added.

The MP expressed confidence that unity of purpose and strong support for a widely accepted candidate would position the NPP to return to power in 2028.