Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia held a meeting with his primary rival Kennedy Agyapong at the latter’s residence in Accra, following the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer race on November 4, 2023,
This visit, as reported in the November 10, 2023 edition of the pro-government Daily Guide newspaper, occurred on Wednesday, November 8, 2023.
Describing it as a “calculated political move,” the newspaper said the meeting held over dinner “was aimed at renewing the bonds of friendship between the two influential figures as well as foster collaboration for the betterment of the nation as next year’s election beckons.”
Neither the camp of the Vice President nor that of the Assin Central MP has released any images or details of the mentioned meeting. The Assin Central MP, who emerged as a significant power broker in the NPP due to his surprising performance in the NPP presidential flagbearer race, was involved in this undisclosed meeting.
According to the report, “Dr. Bawumia is expected to visit other aspirants and opinion leaders in the NPP as he tries to mend fences and build bridges ahead of the 2024 elections.
Dr Bawumia reportedly praised Ken for his substantial contributions to the party across all levels, emphasizing the need for a united effort, prioritizing national interests over personal ones.
“They agreed to set aside any differences and work hand in hand to ensure the prosperity and development of Ghana,” the report added.
The most recent public sighting of the two was on November 4 during the official announcement of Bawumia as the race winner, an event where Ken was reportedly “compelled” to attend.
During the November 4 vote, Dr. Bawumia secured 61.47% of the total votes from nearly 200,000 NPP delegates, emerging as the victor, while Ken Agyapong secured about 37.41%.
At an event declaring the vice president the winner on Saturday night, Ken Agyapong pledged support for Dr. Bawumia’s presidential campaign.
“This is the only thing I’ve been preaching, and I must admit this election is fair and my grassroots have spoken; therefore, I accept the results in good faith,” Mr Agyapong said moments after the results was announced.
He vowed his allegiance to the flagbearer-elect to aid in defeating the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and to secure a victory beyond the current eight-year tenure.
“So, party members we should put everything behind us and let’s unite this party…, I believe we can break the eight and that’s what I’ve been preaching,” he added.