As the 2026 election period heats up, however, this unwritten code appears to be breaking down.
The involvement of presidential candidates’ spouses in active campaigning has increased significantly, moving them from supportive roles into more visible and controversial political spaces.
This shift has sparked debate about party culture, respect for elders, and the expanding influence of the Second Lady in political and property-related disputes.
On 14 April 2026, political commentator Kofi Sammy published a Facebook post sharply criticizing Mrs. Samira Bawumia, the wife of Ghana’s Vice President.
He accused her of crossing traditional boundaries within the party, describing her actions as unacceptable and contrary to established NPP norms.
Sammy referenced the 2023 and 2026 internal elections, alleging that she openly campaigned against Kennedy Agyapong in Kumasi and portrayed him in a negative light, urging delegates and party officers to reject his candidacy.
According to Sammy, NPP tradition since 1992 has discouraged spouses of flagbearer aspirants from directly attacking internal opponents.
While he accepted that political rivalry between candidates is part of the process, he argued that a spouse engaging in such public criticism is inappropriate and damaging to party unity, warning that such conduct should not be ignored.
He also raised concerns about an alleged incident in 2024 involving the demolition of properties belonging to NPP financier Dr. George Oti Bonsu.
Sammy claimed that Mrs. Bawumia disregarded intervention attempts by former President J.A. Kufuor, who had reportedly urged a peaceful resolution.
The post alleges that the demolition went ahead regardless, leading to tension within the party and contributing to Dr. Oti Bonsu’s withdrawal and the creation of a new political movement called “The Base.”
In conclusion, Sammy’s statement frames the situation as a broader warning about power and accountability within the party.
Using a proverb about crocodiles and vulnerability, he suggested that disregard for influential figures could signal even greater risks for ordinary citizens.
His comments have intensified discussion about unity and internal stability within the NPP as the 2026 elections draw closer.