Political analyst and lecturer at the University of Cape Coast, Dr. Jonathan Asante Otchere, has waded in on the ongoing “Thank You Tour” by Former Vice President and Flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.
He says that the exercise misses an opportunity for deeper national healing and cohesion.
According to him, the tour, though appreciated by party loyalists, would have carried greater impact had it been rebranded as a “Unity Tour” aimed at bridging political divides and rallying collective national support ahead of the 2028 general elections.
Speaking on Midday News with Beatrice Adu on 3FM, 92.7, Dr. Otchere acknowledged the Vice President’s efforts to express gratitude to delegates and party members for endorsing his presidential bid but cautioned that in a time of socio-political tensions and economic uncertainty, a message of unity would have resonated more powerfully with Ghanaians across the political spectrum.
He noted that while the New Patriotic Party (NPP) is within its rights to consolidate internal support, the broader national interest demands more inclusive messaging.
“This is a crucial moment for the country,” Dr. Otchere said. “Ghanaians want leadership that reaches beyond party lines. A Unity Tour would have symbolized a willingness to engage everyone—whether they supported him or not.”
Dr. Otchere emphasized that recent political discourse has grown increasingly polarized, and leadership gestures that promote solidarity, peace, and shared vision are urgently needed. He expressed concern that a strictly partisan thank-you tour might deepen existing divisions rather than heal them.
While he commended the Vice President for engaging with the grassroots, Dr. Otchere urged the government and the NPP leadership to pivot future political engagements towards more inclusive, dialogue-driven formats that reflect the collective aspirations of Ghanaians.
