Incumbent National Organiser of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Salam Mustapha, has withdrawn from the race to retain his position ahead of the party’s October 3, 2026 national executives election.
In a letter dated September 9, 2026, and addressed to the Chairman of the NPP National Officers Elections Committee, Mr Mustapha attributed his decision to what he described as “circumstances beyond my control.”
He said the decision had been difficult, particularly given the encouragement and support he had received from party members, delegates, colleagues and supporters across the country.
“This decision has been a difficult one, particularly considering the encouragement, goodwill and overwhelming support I have received from Party members, delegates, colleagues and well-wishers across the country,” he stated.
“However, due to circumstances beyond my control, I am unable to continue with my candidature.”
Commitment to NPP Remains
Salam Mustapha, who had been campaigning on the “Rebuild, Rebrand, Recapture” agenda, stressed that his withdrawal should not be interpreted as a loss of commitment to the NPP.
The NPP Youth Organiser said he remained dedicated to the party and would continue contributing to efforts to unite and rebuild it ahead of the next general election.
“My dedication to the Party remains firm, and I will continue to serve and contribute towards its unity, rebuilding and electoral success, and also to make Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia the next president of Ghana,” he said.
He expressed gratitude to those who supported his campaign and appealed to them to accept his decision in good faith and remain focused on the broader interests of the party.
“To my supporters in particular, I appeal to you to accept this decision in good faith and remain united and committed to the larger interest of the Party,” he added.
Calls for Unity
Mr Mustapha also urged NPP members to place the collective interests of the party above individual ambitions.
“Political positions may come and go, but our commitment to the NPP and the future of our Party must remain greater than any individual ambition,” he said.
He wished the other candidates well and expressed hope that the internal electoral process would ultimately strengthen the party and improve its prospects of returning to power.
“I wish the Party and all candidates participating in the internal electoral process well. May our actions and choices ultimately strengthen the NPP and position us for victory in the future,” he stated.
The former candidate concluded his statement with an excerpt from Psalm 23, which he described as his favourite passage in the Bible:
“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want…”
