NPP communicator Andrew Atariwini says the party’s 2028 electoral chances depend on how effectively flagbearer Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia integrates his former rivals, particularly Kennedy Agyapong.
“Somebody like Ken should be appeased,” Mr. Atariwini said, stressing that the former contender commands significant support that cannot be ignored.
He said reconciliation must go beyond symbolic gestures and include meaningful roles.
“Bring him into the fold with respect. Appreciate his support, his views and his base,” he said.
Mr. Atariwini said the same approach should apply to Dr. Bryan Acheampong, noting his campaign demonstrated organizational capacity.
“If you don’t begin by integrating these leaders and their supporters, you risk cutting off a base that is crucial for 2028,” he said. He added that Bawumia must “open his arms” and “recreate the party in his image” through inclusion rather than exclusion.
Meanwhile, Mr. Atariwini is calling for the dismantling of what he describes as a parallel communications structure around flagbearer Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, arguing that it undermines the party’s official hierarchy.
Mr. Atariwini singled out Dennis Miracles Aboagye, a spokesperson for Dr. Bawumia, saying his role has grown beyond that of a spokesperson and now conflicts with the party’s communications directorate.
“We cannot have a communications officer within Bawumia’s camp and then a party communications director. That doesn’t work. It’s a conflict of responsibility,” Mr. Atariwini said.
He alleged that Mr. Aboagye had “usurped” functions meant for the party’s communications structure, including coordinating networks and channeling resources.
“You don’t get to marshal a quasi machinery and undermine the work of the director of communications,” he said.
Mr. Atariwini argued that restoring a single, coherent chain of communication is critical ahead of the 2028 general elections. “Dismantle that parallel structure and allow the party communication department to coordinate messaging,” he said.
Source: A1 Radio | 101.1 Mhz | Mark Kwasi Ahumah Smith | Bolgatanga
