The Kontihene of Akyem Asuom, Nana Boadi Amponim Obo Dade III, has raised concerns about the calibre of contenders in the New Patriotic Party flagbearer race, insisting that the current lineup does not reflect the depth and maturity expected of anyone who seeks to lead Ghana.
Speaking to journalists on December 7, 2025, the outspoken traditional leader said none of the five aspirants display the strength of character or the broad vision required of a president. Known for his candour on national matters, Nana Boadi Obo Dade III described the candidates as sankwas, a term he used to imply that they lack the qualities needed for the highest office.
He compared the current aspirants to earlier party icons such as JB Danquah, Victor Owusu, Kofi Busia, Professor Adu Boahen, Peter Ala Adjetey and JA Kufuor. In his view, these figures represented a level of competence and conviction that has faded within the party’s leadership structure.
He stated that the NPP shaped by Da Rocha, Victor Owusu, Kofi Busia, Professor Adu Boahen, Ala Adjetey and JA Kufuor is very different from what exists today. He stressed that the five individuals seeking the flagbearer slot do not match the stature of these earlier statesmen. He went on to label them the Sankwas Five to emphasize his view that they are far below the standard the party once upheld.
Nana Boadi Obo Dade III further warned that the party risks losing its hold on national power if it chooses any of the current contenders as its presidential candidate. He added that even if the five aspirants were combined on a single ticket, they would still struggle against President John Dramani Mahama if he chose to run.
The New Patriotic Party is expected to elect its flagbearer on Saturday, January 31, 2026.
The race features five prominent members of the party: former Assin Central MP Kennedy Agyapong, Abetifi MP and former Minister for Agriculture Dr Bryan Acheampong, former Vice President and 2024 presidential candidate Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, Bosomtwe MP and former Education Minister Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum and former General Secretary Kwabena Agyei Agyapong.
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