Former Tamale Mayor, Iddrisu Musah Superior has urged members of the New Patriotic Party, and political commentators to analyse the 2024 election results within their proper historical and economic context, warning against simplistic comparisons of vote percentages across different political eras.
In an open article addressed to Kwasi Kwarteng, Musah Superior outlined the percentage performances of NPP presidential candidates since 1992, noting that electoral outcomes in Ghana’s Fourth Republic have been shaped “more by prevailing political and socio-economic conditions than by the personal strengths or weaknesses of candidates alone.”
He argued that victories in Ghana’s presidential elections are closely tied to the public’s perception of a governing party’s record, stating:
“John Mahama’s 2024 victory was less about his personality and more about capitalising on public dissatisfaction with the outgoing government. Likewise, President Akufo-Addo’s 2016 victory rode heavily on the legacy of NPP governance from 2000–2008.”
Harsh Conditions in 2024
According to Musah Superior, Dr. Bawumia’s 41.61% showing in 2024 must be seen against a backdrop of post-COVID recovery struggles, inflation, debt restructuring, corruption allegations, and internal party challenges — factors he described as “far harsher” than those faced by Kufuor in 2004 or Akufo-Addo in 2016.
“No two elections have been held under the same conditions,” he stressed, adding that voter turnout dynamics, party unity, and the opponent’s profile must all be factored into any fair comparison.
Rejecting the ‘Worst Defeat’ Narrative
Musah Superior dismissed claims that the 2024 result represents the NPP’s “worst defeat,” pointing out that global political trends post-COVID have seen incumbent parties punished at the polls. He further noted that Bawumia’s 4.65 million votes remain one of the highest tallies ever achieved by a first-time NPP flagbearer.
Second Chances Based on Viability, Not Just Percentages
Addressing calls for a change of candidate ahead of the 2028 elections, Musah Superior argued that second chances have historically been granted based on viability, not just numerical gains.
“Prof. Adu Boahen was replaced in 1996 not because he performed poorly in 1992, but because the party believed a fresh face was needed against Rawlings,” he recalled. “Kufuor and Akufo-Addo were re-nominated because they remained the most credible options for victory.”
Bawumia as the 2028 Path to Victory
Musah Superior concluded that with party unity restored and the NDC facing the pressures of governance before 2028, Dr. Bawumia remains the NPP’s “best foot forward” for reclaiming power.
“If we reignite our party with the experienced of Dr. Bawumia, coupled with a failed NDC government, we will come out victorious,” he said.
