NPP sets January 31, 2026, for presidential primary ahead of 2028 elections

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has confirmed Saturday, January 31, 2026, as the official date for its presidential primary ahead of the 2028 general elections.

The announcement followed a crucial meeting of the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) on Tuesday, June 17, 2025. It was later ratified by the National Council. NPP General Secretary Justin Frimpong Kodua disclosed the decision to the media.

“The Committee also spoke about the time for our presidential primaries. And again, the Committee agrees that that decision does not warrant amendment of our Constitution. And the National Council today also made the decision that the date for our presidential primaries is set for January 31, 2026. That will be the date that we shall hold our presidential primaries,” Mr. Kodua said.

He clarified that the scheduling of the primaries falls within the authority of the National Council and does not require ratification by the National Delegates Conference.

The announcement has set the stage for an anticipated contest among seasoned politicians and emerging figures within the party, as preparations intensify for a possible return to power in 2028. The primaries are expected to shape the future direction of the NPP.

In the lead-up to the primary, the party is set to publish comprehensive guidelines, including nomination processes, timelines for campaigning, and ethical standards for aspirants. Party leadership has pledged to conduct the process with transparency and fairness, in keeping with the NPP’s democratic principles.

Additionally, a nine-member committee chaired by former Bekwai MP Joseph Osei Owusu has been tasked with planning the NPP’s upcoming National Delegates Conference in July 2025. The gathering will deliberate on a range of proposed constitutional amendments.

Mr. Kodua explained, “Because there is going to be a proposal or motion for amendment of our constitution, a planning committee has been put in place.”

Meanwhile, supporters of former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia and Kennedy Agyapong have engaged in heated banter on social media, each justifying why their candidate should be the preferred choice.