A broadcaster with Wontumi FM, Atta Poku, has disclosed that his decision to join the station was strategically aimed at advancing his political career. “I joined Wontumi FM to leverage its network for my political career. After seeing my peers succeed in politics while I was in Europe, I felt it was time to align with Wontumi.
I’m confident that I’ll secure a position in the NPP during the second term,” he remarked.
Wontumi FM, named after its owner, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, played a significant role in the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) campaign efforts.
Chairman Wontumi, who is the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the NPP, was vocal in the lead-up to the 2024 elections, asserting that the party would “break the 8” and secure a historic victory. However, the reality proved otherwise.
In the 2024 elections, the NPP, led by Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia as its presidential candidate and Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh as his running mate, suffered a significant defeat to the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
The NDC’s candidate, John Dramani Mahama, emerged victorious and was sworn in as President on January 7, 2025.
The NDC secured a commanding victory, with John Dramani Mahama receiving a significant percentage of the vote compared to Dr. Bawumia.
The NDC also gained a substantial majority in Parliament, winning 183 seats, while the NPP managed only 88 seats.
This dramatic shift saw Alexander Afenyo-Markin transition from being the Majority Leader in 2024 to the NPP Minority Leader in 2025.
Meanwhile, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, who served as the NDC’s Minority Leader in 2024, now assumes the role of Majority Leader in Parliament.
Several NPP members have attributed the party’s loss to spiritual factors and voter apathy.
Alexander Akwasi Acquah, a former Deputy Health Minister and MP for Akim Oda, claimed the defeat was “spiritually orchestrated,” stating that months before the election, he was warned by a divinely guided individual about the impending loss.
Others within the party expressed concerns over low voter turnout, particularly in their strongholds, which significantly impacted their performance.
Dr. Bawumia, in his concession speech, acknowledged the defeat and urged party members to regroup and prepare for the future.
The loss has prompted widespread calls for introspection within the NPP, with some members emphasizing the need for unity and strategic planning to reclaim power in 2028.
President Mahama wasted no time in taking charge, announcing three ministerial appointments shortly after his swearing-in. These nominees are set to face vetting on Monday, January 13, 2025.
His government has pledged to address pressing economic and social issues, aiming to fulfill campaign promises and restore public trust.
Despite the setback, many within the NPP remain hopeful about the future.
Atta Poku, for instance, is optimistic about his chances of securing a position in the party during the next electoral cycle.
ICYMI-
“I joined Wontumi FM to leverage its network for my political career. After seeing my peers succeed in politics while I was in Europe, I felt it was time to align with Wontumi. I’m confident that I’ll secure a position in the NPP during the second term.”-Atta Poku pic.twitter.com/1f5j4LrYtk
— Ghana Chronicles (@_GhChronicles) January 10, 2025
