Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, has withdrawn from the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) National Chairmanship race, days after his campaign team picked nomination forms for him.
In a statement dated August 24, 2026, Wontumi said he made the decision after consultations with his family, legal team, party elders, campaign team and trusted supporters.
He explained that his current circumstances should not become an additional burden for the NPP as the party works to rebuild following its 2024 election defeat.
The withdrawal comes shortly after his campaign team picked nomination forms on August 21 to enable him to pursue the national chairmanship contest despite his incarceration.
At the time, the campaign said it remained committed to his bid.
The NPP’s National Elections Committee had also clarified that collecting nomination forms did not automatically qualify an aspirant to contest. Candidates were still required to go through the party’s vetting process to establish their eligibility.
Wontumi is currently serving a 20-year prison sentence following his conviction on illegal mining-related charges. His legal team is challenging both the conviction and sentence, meaning his legal situation remains an important part of the circumstances surrounding his political ambitions.
Despite stepping aside from the NPP chairmanship contest, Wontumi said the decision should not be interpreted as giving up on his legal fight. He also appealed to his supporters to remain loyal to the party and avoid attacking other aspirants in his name.
His withdrawal changes the field for the NPP’s upcoming national executive elections. Five aspirants had initially picked forms to contest the National Chairperson position, including Wontumi, Paul Afoko, John Boadu, Boakye Agyarko and Sammy Crabbe. The incumbent National Chairman, Stephen Ayesu Ntim, is not seeking re-election.
Wontumi’s exit therefore leaves the remaining contenders to continue the race as the NPP prepares to elect new national executives and chart its direction ahead of the 2028 general elections.
