New Patriotic Party (NPP) National Chairmanship aspirant Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has withdrawn from the race and called on his supporters to rally behind the party’s flagbearer, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia.
In a statement, Mr Antwi-Boasiako said he arrived at the decision after a period of prayer, reflection and consultations with his family, legal team, party elders, campaign team and trusted supporters.
He explained that his current circumstances should not become an additional burden or distraction for the NPP as it seeks to rebuild following its defeat in the 2024 general elections.
According to him, withdrawing from the contest was not a decision he wanted to make, but one he considered necessary in the interest of the party.
He also expressed appreciation to his supporters across the country for standing by his candidature and supporting his campaign.
Mr Antwi-Boasiako urged his supporters not to attack other aspirants or allow his withdrawal to create divisions within the party.
Instead, he called on them to remain loyal to the NPP and support Dr Bawumia as the party prepares for the 2028 general elections.
He stressed that the party would need a united and disciplined membership to successfully rebuild and return to power.
The withdrawal comes just days after Mr Antwi-Boasiako’s campaign team picked nomination forms on his behalf while he was in prison, signalling his determination at the time to continue with the chairmanship contest.
Mr Antwi-Boasiako is currently serving a 20-year prison sentence following his conviction over offences linked to illegal mining activities at the Samreboi concession in the Western Region. He has challenged the conviction and sentence.
Despite his withdrawal, he said his commitment to the NPP remains unchanged, describing the decision as a painful pause rather than the end of his political journey.
He further appealed to party members to put aside bitterness, close ranks and work together ahead of the 2028 elections.
