Dr. Razak Kojo Opoku, a leading strategist in the Dr. Bryan Acheampong for President 2028 campaign, has urged members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to remain mindful of the party’s historical dynamics regarding the selection of presidential candidates.

Speaking in reference to the ongoing build-up to the 2028 flagbearer contest, Dr. Opoku reminded party faithful of the events leading up to the 1996 NPP presidential primaries.

He recalled that at the time, Prof Albert Adu Boahen was widely perceived as the overwhelming favourite to lead the party, with supporters chanting "Hail Adu Boahen" across the country.

However, in a surprising turn of events, it was John Agyekum Kufuor—considered the underdog—who secured victory at the primaries and went on to become the President of Ghana.

“The spirit of the Elephant,” Dr. Opoku said, referring to the NPP's emblem, “is always alert to the prevailing realities on the ground.

It often moves in the direction of what is best for the party and the nation, even when popular expectations suggest otherwise.”

He stressed that the lesson from 1996 should serve as a reminder to both party delegates and sympathisers that popularity does not always translate into victory within the NPP’s internal democratic structures.

Dr. Opoku’s comments come amid intensifying lobbying and strategising ahead of the 2028 NPP flagbearer race, as various party stalwarts position themselves to succeed President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.

He concluded by expressing confidence in Dr. Bryan Acheampong’s vision and ability to lead the party into the future, noting that the NPP’s decision-making process has always aligned with prevailing realities rather than hype or sentiment.