Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Chairman Wontumi, has defended his decision to contest for the party’s national chairmanship, arguing that political success is determined by the ability to win elections rather than academic qualifications alone.
Speaking in an interview with Kwaku Dawuro on Movement TV, Wontumi said his more than two decades of service to the NPP have prepared him for the party’s highest leadership position.
According to him, he has risen through the ranks of the party, serving first as a constituency chairman before becoming Ashanti Regional Chairman, and now believes he is ready to lead the party nationally.
“It has been about 20 years since I became a constituency chairman and later a regional chairman. Now I am vying for national chairman,” he stated.
Wontumi disclosed that he has received official recognition from the NPP for his contributions and dedication to the party over the years.
The NPP stalwart argued that the primary objective of every political party is to win political power and that party leaders should therefore be evaluated based on their ability to secure electoral victories.
“A political party is established for one main purpose — to win power. The focus is to win elections, and that is why I want to lead the party as national chairman,” he said.
Responding to criticisms about his educational background, Wontumi maintained that while academic qualifications are important, they do not automatically translate into electoral success.
“I can choose to go to school and acquire certificates, but that is not the main focus. The main focus is to win elections,” he stressed.
He noted that the NPP already boasts numerous professionals, including lawyers, engineers, and other highly educated members, but insisted that what the party needs most is effective political mobilization and grassroots engagement.
“The party already has lawyers, engineers, and many elite people. What needs to be done is the job, and that is where I come in. That’s why they call me ‘Chairman Get the Job Done’,” he said.
Wontumi further argued that politics, like other professions, requires different individuals to perform different roles, stressing that electoral success depends on people who understand and can connect with ordinary voters.
“We cannot win elections with education alone. It is about people who understand the language of the people. It is about grassroots politics,” he stated.
He added that his inability to speak fluent English should not be considered a disqualification for the position of national chairman, noting that administrative responsibilities within the party are handled by other officers, including the General Secretary.
“There is a General Secretary who is in charge of administrative duties, so my inability to speak better English does not disqualify me,” Wontumi said.
The Ashanti Regional Chairman concluded by declaring his readiness for the contest, expressing confidence that his experience and track record make him the right person to lead the NPP into future elections.