Incumbent National Youth Organiser of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Salam Mustapha, has withdrawn from the contest for the position of National Organiser of the party.
In a statement issued on September 9, Salam said the decision had been difficult, citing “circumstances beyond my control” for his inability to continue with his candidature.
He expressed gratitude to party members, delegates, colleagues and well-wishers across the country for the encouragement, goodwill and support he received throughout his campaign.
“This decision has been a difficult one, particularly considering the encouragement, goodwill and overwhelming support I have received from Party members, delegates, colleagues and well-wishers across the country,” he said.
“However, due to circumstances beyond my control, I am unable to continue with my candidature,” he added.
Mr Salam stressed that his withdrawal would not affect his commitment to the NPP, saying he remained dedicated to the party’s unity, rebuilding and electoral success.
He also reaffirmed his support for former Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, expressing his desire to see him become the next elected President.
“My dedication to the Party remains firm, and I will continue to serve and contribute towards its unity, rebuilding and electoral success, and also to make Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia the next president of Ghana,” he said.
Mr Salam appealed to his supporters to accept his decision in good faith and remain united in the interest of the party.
“I am deeply grateful to everyone who believed in my vision and supported this journey. To my supporters in particular, I appeal to you to accept this decision in good faith and remain united and committed to the larger interest of the Party,” he noted.
He said political positions were temporary, stressing that commitment to the NPP and its future should take precedence over individual ambitions.
“Political positions may come and go, but our commitment to the NPP and the future of our Party must remain greater than any individual ambition,” he stated.
He further wished all candidates participating in the party’s internal electoral process well, expressing hope that their actions would strengthen the NPP and position it for future electoral victory.
Mr Salam ended his statement with a reference to Psalm 23, describing it as his favourite passage in the Bible: “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want…”
