Former Vice President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia has called for renewed national unity, stronger democratic institutions and internal cohesion within the New Patriotic Party (NPP) as Ghana enters a new year marked by reflection and political transition.
In a comprehensive New Year message to Ghanaians, Dr Bawumia reflected on the challenges of the past year, acknowledging the economic pressures facing households, traders, professionals, farmers and unemployed youth across the country. While noting signs of improved macroeconomic stability, he admitted that many citizens continue to struggle with the cost of living and limited employment opportunities.
“A new year gives us a pause and a moment to reflect on where we are coming from, the choices we have made, and the future we still hope to build together,” Dr Bawumia said, describing his message as one of hope, reflection and renewed commitment to the nation.
He congratulated President John Dramani Mahama on completing his first year in office and wished him well, while stressing that leadership must be exercised with responsibility and respect for the trust placed in him by the Ghanaian people. “The Ghanaian people have bestowed a sacred trust on him, and he cannot afford to fail them,” Dr Bawumia stated.
The former Vice President urged President Mahama to guard Ghana’s peace, stability and unity, warning that recent developments could undermine the country’s democratic credentials. He referenced Ghana’s decline in the 2025 Global Peace Index, noting that the country had dropped six places globally to 61st and fallen from fourth to seventh position in sub-Saharan Africa. According to him, the rankings highlight growing security concerns and pockets of unrest that require urgent attention.
Dr Bawumia also expressed concern about what he described as growing pressure on democratic institutions, particularly the judiciary. He cited the circumstances surrounding the exit of Ghana’s third female Chief Justice as an example that had troubled many citizens. “When institutions are weakened, democracy is weakened. When institutions are politicised, trust is lost,” he cautioned, adding that Ghana’s democracy must never be sacrificed for short-term political advantage.
Turning to internal party affairs, Dr Bawumia described the current moment as critical for the NPP, urging members to uphold the party’s founding values of freedom, justice and opportunity for all. With the party scheduled to elect its flag bearer on 31 January ahead of the 2028 general elections, he appealed for unity and discipline throughout the process.
“This flag bearership contest should be about ideas and vision, not personal attacks,” he said. “We only strengthen our opponents when we allow division to take root within our own party.”
He highlighted recent constitutional reforms within the NPP, including the expansion of the Electoral College to ensure broader participation, and called on party members to remain focused on reclaiming power in 2028 “for the sake of Ghana”.
Dr Bawumia reaffirmed his commitment to rebuilding the party and restoring public trust, assuring supporters that NPP Members of Parliament would continue to hold the government accountable and advocate for the ordinary Ghanaian.
In his closing remarks, he appealed for national unity beyond political, ethnic and religious differences, expressing confidence in Ghana’s potential. “Our young people are capable, hardworking and full of ideas,” he said, adding that with the right focus, Ghana could create jobs, support small businesses and improve public service delivery.
The address ended with a message of optimism and faith for the year ahead. “I am determined to restore trust in our institutions and put Ghana back on top as Africa’s proudest nation,” Dr Bawumia concluded. “May God bless our democracy and our beloved homeland, Ghana.”
