There are no “slaves” or “royals” in NPP – Bawumia kicks against tribalism
Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, one of the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) presidential aspirants, has kicked against tribal and religious divisions, emphasising that the party’s strength has always been founded on unity and equal participation.
Speaking to supporters in Wa during his campaign tour of the Upper West Region, Dr. Bawumia denounced what he referred to as increasing efforts by some within the party to categorise groups as “slaves” or “royals”, cautioning that such language jeopardises the party’s reputation and unity.
Dr. Bawumia underscored that the NPP must continue to be a political tradition where every member is treated with respect, irrespective of their background.
“There are no slaves and there are no royals in this party. We are all together as one in this party. Nobody is higher than anybody else. We are all one,” he stated.
He warned those promoting tribal narratives to refrain from doing so, contending that their behaviour diminishes the party’s credibility.
The former Vice President urged party members nationwide to reject any divisive messages, asserting that unity is crucial for fulfilling the NPP’s larger goals.
He added: “We need unity in our party. We don’t need people to divide us on the basis of tribe or on the basis of religion. These are alien to us. Let us all come together”.
Dr. Bawumia reaffirmed his dedication to respectful political discourse, emphasising that his strategy is rooted in maintaining party unity following internal contests.
In a separate address in Wa, Dr. Bawumia reminded party members of the enduring tradition of prioritising competence and electability over tribal or religious affiliations.
He referenced historical instances to illustrate that the NPP’s leadership selections have consistently transcended regional boundaries.
He pointed to previous leadership choices, remarking, “That is how it started with our forefathers SD Dombo, Abayifa Karbo and co when the leadership was ceded to Busia. If it was on tribal basis, the Northern People Party would have kept the leadership in the United Party”.
He further noted that northern constituencies have consistently backed leaders from other regions.
Dr. Bawumia rejected assertions that northern backing for his candidacy is tribal, contending that his appeal spans all regions.
“Simply because the north is supporting me doesn’t mean it is tribalistic. There are 15 other regions that is supporting Dr. Bawumia so it is not about tribalism.”
“This party doesn’t vote on tribalism. We vote on competence and we vote on who can help us win power. And so all those people who are out there in our party making tribal and bigoted statements should desist from that because their comments are not ruining Dr. Bawumia; they are rather ruining the image of the party,” he added.