The quality of candidates contesting the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) flagbearer race has been criticised by the Krontihene of Akyem Asuom, Nana Boadi Amponim Obo-Dade III.

According to the traditional leader, none of the five aspirants show the leadership depth or character needed to lead Ghana as president.

Speaking to the media on December 7, 2025, Nana Boadi Obo-Dade III, who is known for his blunt opinions on national issues, described the aspirants as “sankwas”, a term he used to suggest they are unfit for the role.

Politicians come and go, chiefs are here to stay - Kontihene of Asuom

He contrasted them with past leading figures of the party such as JB Danquah, Victor Owusu, Kofi Busia, Prof Adu-Boahen, Peter Ala Adjetey and JA Kufuor, arguing that the NPP has suffered a decline in terms of quality leadership.

“The NPP of Da Rocha, Victor Owusu, Kofi Busia, Prof Adu-Boahen, Ala Adjetey and JA Kufuor is not the same party we see today. I say this plainly: the five people contesting the flagbearership are sankwas when compared to those men. I call them the Sankwas Five,” he stated.

He further suggested that the party could struggle to regain power if it fields any of the current hopefuls. Using a dramatic comparison, he said that even if all five aspirants were put together on one ballot against President John Dramani Mahama, they would still fall short if Mahama decided to contest.

The NPP is scheduled to hold its flagbearer primary on Saturday, January 31, 2026.

The contest will feature five well-known party figures: former Assin Central MP Kennedy Agyapong; Abetifi MP and former Minister for Agriculture, Dr Bryan Acheampong; former Vice President and 2024 presidential candidate, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia; Bosomtwe MP and former Education Minister, Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum; and former NPP General Secretary, Kwabena Agyei Agyapong.

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