Addai-Nimoh Withdraws from NPP Flagbearer Race, Cites Bias and Monetisation

By  Joylinda Laryea / 27 August, 2025

Francis Addai-Nimoh, a member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has formally withdrawn from the party’s upcoming presidential primaries, citing deep concerns over internal bias, excessive monetisation, and poor timing.

In a press release issued on August 27, 2025, Addai-Nimoh described the party’s internal election environment as unfair and increasingly dominated by money and favouritism. He said his decision came after broad consultations with his campaign team and personal reflection on what he termed as a deteriorating internal democratic culture within the NPP.

“The decision is based on inappropriate political timing, a top-down approach to internal contests, bias by party executives, and the unhealthy monetisation of our internal politics,” he stated.

The former presidential hopeful was particularly critical of the GHS 4.6 million financial requirement placed on each aspirant, describing it as excessive and unethical. According to him, the increasing financial burden not only deters capable leaders but also shifts the focus away from competence and national interest.

“These factors, I believe, undermine the foundations of our internal democratic culture and place unethical emphasis on money rather than competence and winnability,” he added.

Addai-Nimoh also raised alarm over the party’s January 31, 2026 primary date, which he believes is poorly timed and does not allow for a fair and open contest.

Despite his withdrawal, he reaffirmed his commitment to the NPP and its values, while extending his best wishes to the remaining contenders in the race. “Long live the NPP and long live our homeland, Ghana,” his statement concluded.

His exit adds a new layer of scrutiny to the NPP’s internal processes, with many now questioning the party’s ability to conduct a transparent and inclusive flagbearer contest ahead of the 2026 general elections.