Dr Mahamudu Bawumia has urged members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to eschew divisive language, tribalism and internal conflict for party unity.

Speaking at the NPP’s National Annual Delegates Conference at the University of Ghana, Legon, on Saturday, Dr Bawumia, former Vice President, said the party must prioritise unity, discipline and mutual respect ahead of the 2028 elections to strengthen internal cohesion and serve Ghana’s best interests.

“Now more than ever, we must refresh them and desist from any language, character, or actions that divide us. With unity and consistency, we can regain the trust of Ghanaians,” he said.

“If we are fractured and at each other’s throats, none of us can cross over and lead us to fulfil this party’s purpose,” he added.

Dr Bawumia described tribalism and religious bigotry as “existential threats” to the party and warned that their tolerance would erode the NPP’s foundational values.

He reminded members of the party’s inclusive roots, formed from a coalition of diverse political traditions, noting that the NPP had always derived strength from unity in diversity.

“Under our tent, it has not mattered where you come from… it has not mattered what religion you practice, whether you are a Christian, a Muslim, or a traditional African religious practitioner.

“It has not mattered whether you are rich or poor, or whether you are formally educated or not.”

On governance, Dr Bawumia acknowledged the achievements of the NPP under Presidents J.A. Kufuor and Nana Akufo-Addo, but stressed the importance of applying lessons learnt.

“We must remain resolute and consistent in doing the right things again and in applying the lessons the next time. We must ensure that Ghanaians genuinely see the lessons we have learnt and are willing to apply the next time round. We shouldn’t be shy about them,”he urged.

He cautioned against indiscipline and personal attacks during internal contests, warning that such behaviour only benefits political opponents.

“In the end, when internal competitions are over, the attacks we would have launched on ourselves become further an ammunition which our opponents use to attack us. We experienced it in the 2024 campaign and we should not let it happen again as such,” he said.

Dr Bawumia condemned the recent violence during the Ablekuma North polling station elections and urged former President John Dramani Mahama to ensure justice is served.

“I want to remind them that the elephant never forgets. No matter how long it takes, we will execute the perpetrators when we assume office in 2029,” he stated.

He called on party leaders to uphold discipline and lead with humility, adding that unity and a renewed commitment to Ghana’s interest were essential for the NPP’s return to power.

“I am fortified in my heart that as politicians we should always be guided by what’s in the best interest of Ghana at all times. This represents the best example to Ghana’s children.

“What is in Ghana’s best interest will always be in the best interest of the NPP. We cannot ever go wrong with that. Let us showcase it more and more as we reflect and rebuild,”he stressed.

Dr Bawumia wished delegates a successful conference and expressed confidence in the party’s ability to overcome its current challenges.