Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has declared his intention to contest for the position of National Chairman, setting the stage for a potentially fierce internal battle as the party prepares for the 2028 general elections.
In an interview with Oheneba Aseidu on Wontumi TV, the outspoken and controversial regional boss highlighted his extensive grassroots work and financial contributions as the foundation for his leadership bid. Wontumi, who has never held a government position, emphasized that his commitment to the NPP has always been self-funded.
“I’ve been consistent, I’ve been selfless, and I’ve always sacrificed for this party,” he stated. “Everything I’ve done has come from my own pocket, not from any government position, because I’ve never held one.”
Wontumi’s announcement comes as the NPP faces critical decisions about its leadership and strategic direction ahead of the next national election. As a figure known for his brash style and high-profile political maneuvers, his bid is likely to energize party loyalists but may also deepen internal divisions.
Reflecting on his track record, Wontumi pointed to significant financial support for the party over the years, including personally paying for nomination forms for polling station, constituency, and regional aspirants in 2014, 2018, and 2022. He also claims to have funded the 2015 NPP National Congress in Tamale, contributing one billion old cedis to ensure the event’s success during a challenging period for the party.
Beyond financial backing, Wontumi has positioned himself as a champion of grassroots mobilization, boasting of efforts to distribute educational materials nationwide between 2014 and 2016 without any official prompting.
His long tenure as a party leader, from his early days as Bosomtwe Constituency Chairman to his current role as Ashanti Regional Chairman, has given him deep connections within the party’s base, which could prove pivotal in his bid for the national chairmanship.
“I’ve built constituency offices, funded youth events, and consistently supported the national office. What else is left to prove?” Wontumi asked, framing his candidacy as the natural next step in his political journey.
As the NPP looks to consolidate its base and build momentum ahead of the next election, Wontumi’s entry into the national leadership race signals a potentially transformative moment for the party, with high stakes for its future direction.
