“NDC Can Defeat Bawumia Easily” – Mahama Ayariga Reacts to NPP Flagbearer Victory

Majority Leader in Parliament, Mahama Ayariga, has expressed strong confidence that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) can defeat the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the 2028 general elections should Dr Mahamudu Bawumia remain the party’s presidential candidate.

According to him, many Ghanaians still remember the economic and governance challenges experienced under the Akufo-Addo administration, which he believes will work against the NPP.

Speaking during Parliament’s sitting on Tuesday, February 3, Ayariga congratulated the NPP for successfully organizing their flagbearer election. He humorously remarked that while Minority MPs dressed in white to celebrate their candidate’s victory, he also joined in wearing white — not in support, but because he was confident the NDC could defeat Bawumia.

“The Bawumia I know is one the NDC can beat any day,” he stated.

Dr Mahamudu Bawumia emerged as the NPP’s flagbearer after securing over 56 percent of the total votes cast in the party’s January 31, 2026 internal election. He polled more than 110,000 votes, placing him far ahead of his closest competitor, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, who garnered about 46,000 votes.

Other contenders included Dr Bryan Acheampong, Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum, and Ing. Kwabena Agyei Agyepong, who collectively secured smaller portions of the vote.

This marks the second time Dr Bawumia will lead the NPP into a presidential election, having previously contested and lost to current President John Mahama in 2024.

Some political observers argue that Bawumia’s continued visibility gives the NPP an advantage going into 2028, especially since President Mahama is constitutionally barred from seeking another term, forcing the NDC to present a new candidate.

However, others counter that electoral success will depend more on party organisation, credibility, and public trust than on candidate recognition alone.

The flagbearer election was largely peaceful across the country, with only a minor incident reported in the Ablekuma North Constituency involving former parliamentary candidate Akua Afriyie.

With nearly three years to the next general elections, political momentum is already beginning to build.