Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, is once again at the centre of controversy, adding to his already troubled reputation following his recent dismal performance at a “Meet the Media” event.

The Vice President’s troubles have intensified as he now faces backlash from the Concerned Youth of Ashanti Region, a crucial support base for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), after a divisive remark regarding the party’s origin.

During the media event, Dr. Bawumia, once praised as the economic mastermind behind the Nana Addo-Bawumia administration, failed to deliver convincing responses to basic questions.

His performance, which drew widespread ridicule on social media, has now been compounded by his recent assertion that the NPP was birthed in the palace of Ofori Panin, in the presence of the chief of Akyem Abuakwa, Amoatia Ofori Panin. 

This statement has ignited fury among the Concerned Youth of Ashanti Region, who see it as a betrayal and a gross misrepresentation of the party’s history.

The Ashanti Region, long considered the heart and soul of the NPP, has been instrumental in the party’s successes over the years.

The region’s unwavering support has been crucial, yet Dr. Bawumia’s comments have cast doubt on his loyalty to the very people who have strengthened his political career since he was brought into the NPP from outside some 15 years ago.

Adding fuel to the fire, some of the angry youth argue that Dr. Bawumia’s actions lend credence to the controversial claims in the ‘Agyapadeɛ Book,’ which alleges that the so-called Akyem Mafia aims to take full control of the party and sideline the Ashantis.

These allegations, long simmering within certain factions of the NPP, have now been reignited by the Vice President’s remarks, deepening divisions within the party.

Kwaku Sarpong, also known as Macho, a respected spare parts dealer at Suame Magazine and a visibly angry member of the NPP who has since vowed not to vote for Bawumia again, expressed the growing discontent: “As for Bawumia, we will show him we have the numbers.

This time we know where our votes will go to. Ade pa wo fie 3yɛ,” he declared, using the Akan phrase that roughly translates to “charity begins at home,” implying a shift in loyalty.

The backlash is severe, with some youth leaders openly vowing to vote against Dr. Bawumia in the upcoming elections.

They view his comments as a sign of ingratitude and a clear indication that he is willing to undermine the region’s contributions to the party for personal gain.

Some NPP Members of Parliament (MPs) from the Ashanti Region, speaking on condition of anonymity, also expressed their disappointment. One particular MP, who lost his parliamentary primary, lamented that the NPP they grew up with is no more, and the Vice President is now boldly revealing the true owners of the new NPP. “They used us to destroy each other so they would be the last people standing to control the party. We have been used,” he said.

This latest controversy has only compounded the crisis surrounding Dr. Bawumia’s candidacy, raising serious concerns about the NPP’s prospects in the upcoming elections. The incident highlights the growing discontent within the party, particularly among its core supporters, who feel increasingly alienated by the Vice President’s actions and words.

Dr. Bawumia’s recent actions have not only compounded his existing problems but have also jeopardised the NPP’s unity and electoral prospects. The Concerned Youth of Ashanti Region’s pledge to vote against him signals a significant shift in the political landscape, one that could have far-reaching implications for the party’s future.

The Vice President’s troubles, moving from frying pan to fire, serve as a blunt reminder that political loyalty and historical fidelity are non-negotiable in Ghana’s political arena