As the New Patriotic Party (NPP) inches closer to a competitive internal race ahead of the 2028 general elections, tensions appear to be escalating, with allies of presidential hopeful Dr. Bryan Acheampong raising alarm over what they describe as targeted smear tactics against his candidacy.
Dr. Razak Kojo Opoku, a prominent NPP strategist and vocal supporter of Acheampong’s presidential ambitions, took to social media on Tuesday to condemn what he termed a “Character Assassination Strategy” (CAS) allegedly being deployed by rivals within the party.
Without naming specific individuals, Dr. Opoku claimed that the recent attacks on Dr. Acheampong’s integrity reflect fear and insecurity among opponents who view him as a formidable contender in the NPP’s future leadership race.
“An unstable competitor would always deploy character assassination when they feel threatened,” he posted, warning party members to remain alert to politically motivated misinformation.
The remarks come as the NPP begins to witness early positioning among key figures vying to succeed President John Mahama in 2028. While formal campaigning is yet to commence, public endorsements, media appearances, and subtle jabs have become increasingly frequent within party circles.
Dr. Acheampong, who previously served as Minister for Food and Agriculture, has maintained a relatively low profile since the change of government but remains influential, particularly among grassroots organisers and younger party strategists.
Dr. Opoku’s defense of Acheampong signals an early pushback against internal resistance and a bid to shape the narrative around his candidate’s public image ahead of what promises to be a heated contest.
“Despite distractions, Dr. Bryan Acheampong remains focused, disciplined, and results-driven,” Dr. Opoku insisted, describing him as “the best choice” to lead both the NPP and Ghana into the next phase of national development.
Observers say the statement reflects growing factional tensions within the party, as various blocs begin to align behind prospective flagbearers. Analysts also note that managing internal rivalries will be crucial for the NPP if it hopes to mount a serious comeback in the next general election cycle.
With the race for the 2028 flagbearer position still wide open, party unity and strategic communication are expected to play pivotal roles in shaping the outcome—and political survival of its leading contenders.
