channel247 online
Former Minister for Defence, Dominic Nitiwul, has dismissed claims that the Northern Region’s support for New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer Dr Mahamudu Bawumia is driven by ethnic or regional considerations, insisting it is firmly rooted in competence and proven leadership.
Speaking in Yendi during Dr Bawumia’s campaign tour of the area, Mr Nitiwul said Northerners have historically made political choices based on merit rather than shared lineage. According to him, the political tradition of the North has always prioritised what is right for the country over sectional interests.
He explained that from Ghana’s early political history, leaders from the North demonstrated their commitment to national unity by supporting candidates they believed were best suited to lead, regardless of where they came from. He cited examples from the Busia era and subsequent elections to underscore that Northerners have never voted simply because a candidate hailed from the North.
Mr Nitiwul recalled instances where northern candidates were overlooked in favour of individuals perceived to have a stronger chance of winning national power, stressing that such decisions were deliberate and guided by competence. “We have never followed anyone because he is a northerner. We follow those we believe can lead Ghana well,” he stated.
He further argued that Dr Bawumia’s track record as Vice President speaks for itself, describing him as the most competent Vice President Ghana has produced. Mr Nitiwul said Dr Bawumia has demonstrated leadership, vision and integrity, qualities he believes will translate into effective governance if elected President.
The former Defence Minister expressed confidence that Dr Bawumia would lead the NPP to victory in the next general election, adding that his presidency would not only make the North proud but also uplift Ghana and Africa as a whole.
Mr Nitiwul therefore urged Ghanaians to disregard narratives suggesting that northern support for Dr Bawumia is based on ethnicity, emphasising that the backing he enjoys is the result of merit, performance and the belief that he is the right person to lead the country forward.
