IGER Africa Projects Bawumia Victory in NPP Flagbearer Race, Flags Religious Hurdles Ahead of 2028

Governance, Religion and Policy Think Tank, IGER Africa, has projected a likely victory for former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia in the upcoming New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer elections scheduled for Saturday, January 31.

According to the Founder and President of IGER Africa, Paul Abrokwa, Dr Bawumia’s strong political experience, economic credentials and deep-rooted support within the party place him in a favourable position to clinch the NPP presidential nomination.

Dr Bawumia is contesting the flagbearer slot alongside Kennedy Agyapong, Kwabena Agyei Agyepong, Dr Bryan Acheampong, and Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum.

In a statement, Mr Abrokwa noted that while Dr Bawumia is well-positioned to win the party primary, broader religious dynamics within Ghana’s electorate could pose challenges in the 2028 general elections.

“Dr Mahamudu Bawumia’s prospects of winning the NPP presidential primary are strong due to his political experience, economic credentials, and party support. However, the religious dynamics of Ghana’s electorate present a significant hurdle for his success in the 2028 general election,” the statement said.

Why Bawumia Is Favoured in the NPP Primaries

IGER Africa outlined several factors underpinning Dr Bawumia’s strong showing within the party:

• Strong Party Loyalty and Track Record: Serving as Vice President since 2017, Dr Bawumia has played a central role in the NPP government, particularly in economic management and digitalisation initiatives.
• Economic Expertise: As an economist, his involvement in fiscal and monetary policy reforms has bolstered his image as a competent and technocratic leader.
• Party Structure and Networks: The NPP’s delegate-based system often favours candidates with established influence within party structures—an advantage Dr Bawumia is believed to possess.
• Ethnic and Regional Support: He enjoys significant backing in Ghana’s northern regions, a factor considered crucial in internal party elections.

Religious Dynamics and the 2028 General Election

While acknowledging Ghana’s reputation for religious tolerance, IGER Africa cautioned that religious identity could influence voter behaviour in a national election.

Christians constitute approximately 71% of Ghana’s population, with Muslims making up about 18%. IGER Africa’s research suggests that religious affiliation, though often subtle, can shape political perceptions and electoral outcomes.

Key concerns highlighted include:

• Potential religious bias against a Muslim presidential candidate at the national level.
• The influence of Christian-majority voting blocs in determining general election outcomes.
• Possible exploitation of religious sentiments by political opponents to polarise voters.
• The need for strong interfaith and inclusive campaign messaging to build a broad national coalition.

IGER Africa concludes that Dr Bawumia is well-placed to secure the NPP flagbearer position but will need to carefully navigate Ghana’s religious landscape to succeed in the 2028 general elections.

The think tank emphasised that promoting inclusive narratives, managing religious sensitivities, and appealing beyond traditional party and faith-based lines will be critical in Ghana’s pluralistic democracy.

Source: 3news.com

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