The plan for Dr. Bawumia’s presidential candidacy began long ago, right after the 2020 elections. The strategy involved highlighting his potential as the first president from a Muslim background and enlisting CEOs of state institutions as covert members of his campaign team. Bawumia billboards were erected, coinciding with the tense wait for the Supreme Court’s verdict on the 2020 presidential election. The Breaking the 8 slogan gained national appeal, and support for Bawumia’s candidacy became a condition for appointment to public office.
Those grooming Bawumia’s presidential run also aimed to win over a majority of delegates and MMDCEs to his cause. The MMDCEs, in particular, were made to swear loyalty to Bawumia and his campaign, and the delay in their appointment was a tactic to elicit their commitment. CEOs of state institutions were also allegedly tasked with soliciting funds to support Bawumia’s candidacy.
The MMDCEs, as heads of local areas, were expected to persuade eligible delegates to support Bawumia’s candidacy at all costs, even resorting to monetary inducement and religious oaths. Some NPP executives who expressed support for Bawumia were also appointed to key state institutions.