Imprisoned Ashanti Region Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has decided to withdraw from the National Chairmanship contest.
“After many nights of prayer, sober reflection and consultations with my family, legal team, party elders, campaign team and trusted supporters, I have come to the difficult conclusion that my present circumstances must not become an additional burden on the New Patriotic Party,” he wrote in an open letter to members of the party.
“This is not the decision my heart desired, but sometimes, true love requires us to release what we deeply want in order to protect what we love even more.”
He indicatee that he has served the NPP wholeheartedly in both victory and defeat.
However, his present situation must not become a “distraction, division or burden” to the NPP ahead of the 2028 elections.
“The NPP is not merely a political party to me,” he admitted.
“It is my family. It is my home. It is a cause to which I have dedicated a significant part of my life. That is why I cannot allow my present situation or personal ambition to distract the party from the difficult work of rebuilding.
“I cannot ask the party to carry my weight when it is already carrying the pain of defeat and the enormous responsibility of preparing for the battle ahead.”
He expressed gratitude to his supporters and campaign team as well as coordinators, constituency executives, polling station agents and Members of Parliament for believing in the visions he shared.
He threw his backing behind former President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia ahead of the general elections.
“Dr Bawumia needs our prayers, loyalty and total support. He cannot rebuild this party alone.”