A member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) communication team, Hamza Suhuyini, has described former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia as the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) strongest contender for leadership ahead of the 2028 general elections.

Appearing on Channel One TV’s Breakfast Daily on Wednesday, June 18, Suhuyini voiced concern that internal power struggles within the NPP risk undermining Dr. Bawumia’s prospects and the broader opportunity for political renewal under his leadership.

“Whatever way you look at it, the initiative to organise an early congress is simply driven by the motivation to control, not an opportunity to rebuild and ensure transformation in the politics of the NPP. And that is why I feel that this party under this current leadership seems to be doing Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia so much harm,” he stated.

Despite being an opposition figure, Suhuyini acknowledged Dr. Bawumia’s edge over other contenders, regardless of the timing of the party’s congress.

“From where I sit, you can turn the As up or down, whether congress is held today or a year from now, I know that Dr. Bawumia is in a better position to lead the NPP than any of the contenders, in all honesty,” he remarked.

He further cautioned Dr. Bawumia to remain vigilant, advising him not to let political handlers derail the trust that could be placed in him.

“He must learn useful lessons. He must not allow these guys to destroy the responsibility that the party will entrust to him to reform. And this is harmless advice to him,” Suhuyini added that he would be “hugely surprised” if Bawumia is not chosen to lead the party into the 2028 polls.

His remarks come on the heels of an announcement by NPP General Secretary Justin Frimpong Koduah, confirming that the party’s presidential primaries will take place on January 31, 2026.

The date, proposed by the party’s constitution review committee, was subsequently adopted by the National Council.

Frimpong Koduah clarified that the decision is final and does not require the approval of a delegates’ conference, as the National Council holds the authority to set such timelines.