BREAKING: Chairman Wontumi Shocks NPP as He Withdraws From National Chairman Race

Former Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has withdrawn from the race to become the party’s next National Chairman, bringing an abrupt end to a campaign that had generated considerable attention.

Wontumi confirmed his decision in a statement, explaining that his current personal circumstances could become a distraction to the NPP as the party works to reorganize and strengthen itself ahead of the 2028 general elections.

The withdrawal comes only days after members of his campaign team picked up nomination forms on his behalf, signaling that he intended to remain in the contest despite his current incarceration.

In explaining the difficult decision, Wontumi indicated that he arrived at the move after reflection and consultations with his family, legal team and senior members of the party. He stressed that he did not want his personal situation to place an additional burden on the NPP at a crucial stage of its rebuilding efforts.

Wontumi is currently serving a 20-year prison sentence following his conviction on illegal mining-related charges connected to the Samreboi concession. His legal circumstances had sparked debate over whether he could practically and constitutionally continue his bid for the party’s top national position.

Before his withdrawal, Wontumi was among five individuals who had picked nomination forms for the National Chairman position. The other aspirants listed were Paul Afoko, John Boadu, Boakye Agyarko and Sammy Crabbe. Incumbent National Chairman Stephen Ayesu Ntim is not seeking another term.

Wontumi’s exit could significantly reshape the internal contest, particularly because of his strong political following and influence within the NPP’s Ashanti Region base.

Despite stepping aside, he appealed to his supporters to remain committed to the party and prioritize unity as the NPP prepares for the political battles ahead.

His unexpected withdrawal now turns attention to the remaining contenders as the race to determine who will lead the NPP’s national executive structure enters a decisive stage.