Former Minister for Tourism and Creative Arts and Member of Parliament for Sekondi Constituency in the Western Region, Andrew Egyapa Mercer, has thrown his support behind Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, declaring him the strongest contender ahead of the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) upcoming presidential primaries. 

According to him, Dr Bawumia remains a steady and experienced leader whose qualities make him the best choice to lead the party into the 2028 general elections.

Speaking in an interview on Adom TV on Wednesday, 18th June, Mr Mercer praised Dr Bawumia’s consistent leadership and intellectual grasp of national issues. 

“Dr Bawumia's demeanour and personality haven't changed, as well as his knowledge and appreciation of issues haven't also changed,” he stated, arguing that such qualities are needed to galvanise party unity and public confidence.

His remarks follow the NPP’s official announcement of 31st January 2026 as the date for its presidential primaries. 

The decision forms part of a wider constitutional review process aimed at strengthening the party’s electoral strategy and internal structures after its defeat in the 2024 general elections.

Mr Mercer further disclosed that the party had instituted a committee to review the reasons behind its electoral loss. 

“We [NPP] have set a committee to investigate the reasons for our loss in the 2024 elections, and they have decided on the factors that led to our loss,” he said. 

While acknowledging that blame could be shared, he was confident that presenting a candidate with a strong record would offer the NPP its best chance at a comeback. 

“We have a history and a track record of individuals we have presented in the past… and I think Dr Mahamudu Bawumia stands tall,” he affirmed