Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu Surprised by Kennedy Agyapong’s 37% in 2023 NPP Primary, Predicts Decline in 2026
Former Majority Leader and ex-Member of Parliament for Suame, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, has expressed surprise at Kennedy Agyapong’s 37 per cent performance in the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) 2023 presidential primary and believes the figure could drop significantly in the upcoming contest.
Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen programme, Mr Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu attributed Mr Agyapong’s strong showing in 2023 to widespread public dissatisfaction at the time, as well as the withdrawal of Alan Kyerematen from the race.
“I’m not aware of any group in Parliament during my time as Majority Leader. No one spoke to me about asking MPs to support a specific candidate,” he said, dismissing suggestions of organised parliamentary backing for any aspirant.
He emphasised that trust, rather than public declarations of support, is the key determinant of success within the party.
“If people have trust in you, it doesn’t matter who publicly declares their support; you will win. I was surprised by Ken’s 37 per cent. I believe he benefited from the discontent within the system and from Alan pulling out of the race. It’s possible that things may not be the same this time, even among those who have openly declared their support,” he added.
Mr Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu noted that circumstances have since changed and suggested that Mr Agyapong may struggle to replicate his 2023 performance.
He expressed strong confidence in former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, saying his message resonates deeply with party supporters.
“Sometimes, the loudest team does not win; rather, it’s the one that is well prepared. The message that Bawumia carries resonates with the people,” he said.
He predicted that Dr Bawumia could secure a significantly higher share of the vote, projecting close to 70 per cent, depending largely on turnout and performance in the Ashanti Region.
“I believe the elections will go well for him, and he will receive a better percentage than he did in 2023. His performance will largely depend on what happens in the Ashanti Region, but I’m anticipating around 70 per cent support for Bawumia,” he concluded.
The comments come as the NPP prepares for its presidential primaries scheduled for January 31, 2026, with Dr Bawumia widely seen as the frontrunner.
