Speaking on Metro TV, Akwesi Pratt dismissed any possibility of Dr. Bawumia emerging victorious, arguing that Ghana’s current political and economic realities make such an outcome unrealistic.
His comments, delivered in a blunt and unapologetic tone, have since generated intense reactions across political circles and social media platforms.
According to Pratt, the upcoming election should be viewed not as a contest of personalities but as a referendum on the NPP’s record in government, particularly its management of the economy and national affairs over the past years.
“Bawumia can never win,” Pratt stated emphatically. “Ghanaians know the record.
You cannot preside over hardship, unemployment, debt, and failed promises, then expect the same people to reward you with another mandate.”
The veteran journalist stressed that Dr. Bawumia’s long-standing role within the outgoing administration makes it difficult for him to distance himself from policies many citizens associate with economic hardship, rising living costs, and declining public confidence.
Pratt argued that attempts to rebrand or separate the former Vice President from government decisions will not resonate with voters who, in his view, have directly experienced the consequences of those policies.
“The people are not voting based on slogans or campaign energy,” he added. “They are voting based on lived experience.”
While Pratt’s broader political analysis found support among some sections of the public, his choice of language quickly became a flashpoint.
Critics described the remarks as excessive and inflammatory, warning that such rhetoric could further heighten political tensions at a sensitive time.
Supporters, however, defended Pratt’s comments as a form of political expression, insisting that his blunt delivery reflects widespread frustration among voters rather than personal animosity toward Dr. Bawumia.
Social media reactions were sharply divided. Some users echoed Pratt’s position, arguing that voter fatigue and economic pressures could significantly weaken the NPP’s prospects.
Others condemned the comments as reckless, urging influential voices to promote respectful and issue-based political discourse.
Political analysts observing the controversy say the incident highlights the intensity surrounding Saturday’s election, noting that emotions remain high across party lines.
They caution that while robust debate is essential in a democracy, extreme rhetoric risks shifting attention away from policy discussions and governance alternatives.
Despite the backlash, Akwesi Pratt remained firm on his central argument, maintaining that the election outcome will ultimately be shaped by economic realities rather than political messaging.
He insisted that issues such as unemployment, debt, and cost-of-living pressures will outweigh campaign narratives, regardless of how aggressively they are promoted.
As Ghana approaches another defining political moment, the controversy underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing free expression with responsible commentary.
While political analysts and commentators continue to trade sharp words, many agree that the final decision rests with party delegates and, ultimately, the Ghanaian electorate.
Saturday’s vote is expected to test not only party unity within the NPP but also the broader mood of voters as the country looks ahead to the 2028 general elections.