Bernard Antwi-Boasiako Withdraws from NPP National Chairmanship Race Amid Incarceration and Legal Challenges

Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, the prominent New Patriotic Party (NPP) figure widely known as Chairman Wontumi, has officially withdrawn from the party’s upcoming national chairmanship race. In a statement dated August 24, 2026, Wontumi cited personal circumstances and a desire to protect the party from further burdens as it undergoes a critical rebuilding phase following its defeat in the 2024 general elections. The decision comes at a tumultuous time for the former Ashanti Regional Chairman, who is currently serving a 20-year prison sentence related to illegal mining charges. Despite his incarceration, Wontumi described the move as a "painful pause" in his political career rather than a permanent exit, expressing firm confidence that he will eventually secure justice through his ongoing legal appeals.

In his heartfelt address to supporters, Wontumi emphasized the need for absolute loyalty to the NPP and urged members to rally behind the party’s presidential candidate, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. He cautioned against internal divisiveness, specifically asking his followers to refrain from attacking other candidates or creating factions in his name. Wontumi’s withdrawal is framed as an act of self-sacrifice, noting that his personal ambitions should not hinder the party's progress as it prepares for the 2028 electoral cycle. He maintained that his commitment to the NPP remains unshaken, describing the party as his family and his home.

The candidacy had already sparked significant legal and procedural debate within the party. Prior to the withdrawal, private legal practitioner Richard Nii Armah argued that Wontumi’s bid was unconstitutional under Article 55, Clause 8 of the 1992 Constitution, which restricts individuals disqualified from holding public office from serving as political party executives. Furthermore, Frederick Opare Ansah, Chairman of the NPP National Executives Elections Committee, noted that while nomination forms had been issued to Wontumi, the committee had yet to receive formal, official notification of his withdrawal. Ansah stressed that the party requires formal communication rather than reliance on social media reports, while clarifying that the issuance of forms did not automatically guarantee eligibility, a matter reserved for the Vetting Committee.

With the filing deadline set for August 27, 2026, Wontumi’s exit significantly alters the leadership contest. The race for the National Chairmanship now narrows to four primary contenders: Paul Afoko, John Boadu, Boakye Agyarko, and Sammy Crabbe. As the NPP seeks to navigate its role in opposition under the administration of President John Mahama, the outcome of this executive election will be pivotal in defining the party's strategy and unity ahead of the next national polls.