A 2026 NPP flagbearer contestant and former Minister of Food and Agriculture, Dr. Bryan Acheampong, has called on members of the New Patriotic Party to close ranks and rally behind their flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, as the party prepares for the 2028 general elections.

In a statement, Dr. Acheampong stressed that unity remains the most critical factor in the NPP’s efforts to return to power.

“NPP must rally behind its flagbearer to regain power in 2028,” he stated, underscoring the urgency of internal cohesion.

He warned that persistent divisions and unresolved tensions could undermine the party’s chances of recovery, urging members to prioritise collective interest over personal grievances.

Acheampong specifically appealed for support for the party’s presidential candidate, Mahamudu Bawumia, describing him as the central figure around whom all factions must unite.

He noted that while emotions from the primaries remain high, especially among supporters of Assin Central MP Kennedy Agyapong, the party must now move beyond contest-driven disagreements.

“Unity is not optional. Unity is how we win,” Dr. Acheampong emphasised, urging party members to focus on rebuilding rather than internal blame games.

He also addressed concerns about tensions that emerged during the primaries, acknowledging that some campaign remarks directed at individuals were regrettable but insisting they should not be allowed to define the party’s future.

According to him, there is no evidence linking the party’s flagbearer to any coordinated attacks during the internal contest, and he cautioned against attributing individuals’ actions to party leadership.

Dr. Acheampong further called on all sides to embrace reconciliation, noting that the heat of political competition often leads to harsh exchanges that must now be set aside.

He reiterated that Dr. Bawumia represents the collective mandate of the party and should be supported by all members, regardless of their preferred candidates during the primaries.