The New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer hopeful, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has accused the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) of harbouring resentment over his role in the 2016 elections, claiming this animosity is motivating the party to work against his bid to become the NPP’s flagbearer.

Addressing supporters in the Okaikwei South Constituency, Dr. Bawumia said the NDC frequently resorts to insults whenever his name is mentioned, a reaction he attributed to the impact of his 2016 campaign.

“The 2016 campaign was a heated one, and that is why the NDC does not like me,” he said, adding that he remains focused despite the criticism.

He further alleged that the NDC is working tirelessly to prevent him from winning the NPP’s upcoming primary scheduled for January 31, preferring that delegates vote for another candidate.

“Do you know that the NDC does not want you to vote for me in the primary, but instead for someone else? But why should a different party decide who becomes the candidate for your party? I do not believe the constituents of Okaikwei South will allow that,” he said.

The NPP primary, slated for January 31, 2026, is expected to be keenly contested by five aspirants: former Assin Central MP Ken Ohene Agyapong; Abetifi MP and former Minister for Food and Agriculture, Dr. Bryan Acheampong; Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia; former Minister of Education, Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum; and former General Secretary of the party, Kwabena Agyei Agyepong.