NPP National Chairman Race: John Boadu in narrow lead, but race is open and competitive – APL report

Former General Secretary John Boadu has taken an early lead in the NPP National Chairman race, but according to a new report by Africa Policy Lens (APL), the contest remains wide open and competitive with nearly a third of delegates still undecided. The APL National Executives Poll, conducted from July 13 to August 21, 2026, involved 976 eligible constituency and regional executives.

Boadu leads with 38.6% (377 respondents), while former Energy Minister Boakye Agyarko comes in second with 20.7% (202 respondents), followed by Paul Afoko with 5.9% (58 respondents).

The report acknowledges Bernard Antwi Boasiaku as withdrawn but notes he secured 3.2% (31 respondents) and 5.5% among decided voters. Sammy Crabbe finishes last with 0.8% (8 respondents) and 1.4% among decided voters. Notably, 30.7% (300 respondents) are undecided, making the race one of the most fluid top races.

Regional variations show Boadu's strength in Bono East (65%), Upper East (59.6%), and Eastern (52.6%), while Agyarko performs better in Western North (39.1%) and Ahafo (38.5%). Paul Afoko has his strongest support in Upper West (17.9%). Despite Boadu's lead, the APL classifies the Chairman race as "competitive and open" for three reasons: the high undecided rate of 30.7%, which could potentially overturn Boadu's lead, the narrow margin between Boadu and Agyarko (less than 18 points), and the impact of dropouts, particularly the departure of former Chairman Wontumi, who still polled 3.2%.

The final decisions of the 300 undecided delegates will play a crucial role in determining the next NPP National Chairman.