Former Ashanti Regional Minister, Simon Osei-Mensah, has urged the members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to focus on unity to tackle the challenges ahead, following the conclusion of the party’s presidential primary.

In an interview on Nhyria FM's "Kro Yi Mu Nsem", he appealed to supporters of the unsuccessful candidates to stay loyal to the party, acknowledging the pain of defeat.

He emphasised that their continued support is crucial for the party's success.

Mr Osei-Mensah cautions against decisions that could undermine the party's prospects.

He also noted that for the NPP to reclaim power in the upcoming 2028 general election, the flagbearer, Dr Bawumia's supporters must recognise the importance of the other four unsuccessful candidates and their supporters, and work together as one united team, leveraging each other's strengths to achieve victory.

He stressed that while development records are important to regaining power, unity is the ultimate game-changer in winning elections.

When host Barima Kofi Dawson asked about Bawumia's possible running mate, the former regional minister cautioned party members against rushing into discussions, saying it's premature and could divert focus from more pressing matters.

He urged them to hold off on the chatter for now and prioritise getting the party united first.

"I had heard some party members discussing potential running mates for Dr Bawumia. I will appeal to them to hold off on that for now; it is too early, and we need to focus on uniting the party first," he said.

According to him, ultimately, it is up to the flagbearer to choose a running mate that he believes is best suited to support him, so they should give him space to make that call in due time.