A group of Ghanaians has vehemently criticized remarks made by Abetifi MP and NPP presidential hopeful, Dr. Bryan Acheampong, regarding what many consider an unfortunate turn to tribal politics aimed at former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.
In his address to party supporters on August 23, Dr. Acheampong contended that the NPP’s loss in 2024 was primarily attributable to what he referred to as “tribal dynamics” related to Dr. Bawumia’s candidacy.
His comments have ignited significant backlash, with critics cautioning that such views jeopardize national unity.
The former Minister of Agriculture asserted that although former Presidents Kufuor and Akufo-Addo garnered substantial support in northern constituencies, Dr. Bawumia’s candidacy was compromised by enduring rivalries between the Mamprusis and Kusasis.
He contended that this ethnic division played a role in the NPP’s defeats throughout the northern regions, including Oti, Upper East, Upper West, and the Northern Region.
However, many Ghanaians have dismissed his statements as divisive and unwarranted.
Voices from civil society and ordinary citizens have emphasized that attributing Bawumia’s electoral defeat to tribal politics undermines both the Vice President’s legacy and the sophistication of Ghana’s democracy.
Critics argue that Acheampong’s statements threaten to exacerbate ethnic divisions at a moment when unity should be paramount for a party aiming to regain power in 2028.
Numerous individuals have urged him to concentrate instead on policy-oriented solutions and inclusive leadership.
Dr. Bawumia, who held the position of Vice President from 2017 to 2025, is widely acknowledged for his contributions to Ghana’s digital transformation and economic governance.
His supporters maintain that the electoral results of 2024 were influenced by a complex interplay of political, economic, and governance issues—not merely tribal factors.
The wave of criticism directed at Acheampong highlights Ghanaians’ rejection of identity-based politics in favor of a discourse centered on national issues.
