Delegates participating in the New Patriotic Party (NPP) primaries are being urged to focus on substance over slogans as they elect the party’s flagbearer on Saturday, January 31, 2026, across the country.

Yaw Dormacho, a Political analyst, cautioned that some presidential aspirants are relying on empty rhetoric and exaggerating claims of popularity, rather than presenting concrete policies and a clear vision for the country.

The political observer said delegates must prioritise candidates with proven competence, clear policies, and a deep understanding of Ghana’s challenges, ” we need leaders who can deliver results, not just catchy slogans”.

Outlining two major themes shaping delegates' preferences, the commentary noted that many delegates believed voters were increasingly demanding accountability, transparency, and concrete policies, rather than exaggerated displays of support or rhetoric detached from reality.

The analyst maintained that modern political leadership required data-driven solutions and measurable outcomes, adding that voters were more likely to respond to candidates who presented clear plans to address socio-economic challenges.

Within this context, the commentary highlighted former Vice President Dr Mahamadu Bawumia’s campaign as one that emphasised policy substance, accountability, and long-term national development.

He noted that it portrayed his campaign as focused on addressing key socio-economic issues facing Ghanaians, with the aim of positioning the country alongside developed economies.

Mr Dormacho said Dr Bawumia’s approach underscored the importance of vision and actionable leadership over personal wealth, populist messaging, or radical posturing.

He dismissed claims that the general electorate had already made up their minds ahead of the 2028 general elections, describing such assertions as misleading and potentially dangerous, as they could breed complacency within party ranks.

Mr Dormacho quoted as saying that delegates favoured candidates who responded to genuine national needs rather than those who simply echoed voter sentiments.

He described some opposition strategies as “mirror campaigns” that merely reflected perceived voter desires without offering substantive solutions.

"He noted that Dr Bawumia’s campaign was framed as results-oriented, drawing on both internal party strengths and external evidence to build a credible path to victory in 2028.

Mr Dormacho criticised several presidential aspirants for distancing themselves from the previous administration they once served, arguing that true leadership was tested in moments of adversity, not celebration.

He referenced flagship government initiatives such as the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) policy and the digitalisation agenda, suggesting that leaders who shun defending these achievements during challenging periods lack conviction and may prioritise opinion polls over truth.

Quoting the adage that “Success has many fathers, but failure is an orphan,” he said Ghanaians needed a leader who takes responsibility for both achievements and setbacks, and who is prepared to build on existing foundations rather than disown them.”

He called on delegates and voters to reject what he described as ‘non-existent popularity” and instead support candidates with a clear vision and practical solutions.

He highlighted Dr Bawumia’s loyalty, work ethic, and commitment to a digital transformation agenda as key attributes. He urged citizens and delegates to make a decisive choice by voting for Dr Bawumia on January 31, 2026.