In a recent social media post, Samuel Koku Anyidoho, the former Deputy General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), offered his thoughts on a viral image of New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia enjoying coconut water during a campaign event. Anyidoho, known for his active commentary on political happenings, shared the picture on his X account, where he applauded Bawumia’s approach to campaigning.

Anyidoho’s post drew an interesting comparison between Bawumia’s coconut moment and a notable instance from the 2016 election campaign. He likened Bawumia’s refreshing pause to then-candidate Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s iconic photo with a Kalyppo fruit juice box, which became a viral sensation and a symbol of the NPP’s grassroots appeal at the time.

“It was once Kalyppo; now it is coconut water. A man must quench his campaign thirst one way or the other. It’s not easy,” Anyidoho commented, highlighting the recurring theme of simple, relatable acts resonating with the electorate.

The 2016 campaign saw Akufo-Addo’s Kalyppo moment significantly boost his popularity, with supporters and party members enthusiastically mimicking the image. This grassroots campaign strategy contributed to a broader trend of using everyday, relatable imagery to connect with voters on a personal level.

Similarly, Bawumia’s choice to sip on coconut water during his campaign has not only caught the public’s eye but also sparked conversations about the continuity of such relatable campaign tactics within the NPP. Anyidoho’s acknowledgment of this moment suggests an appreciation for the symbolic power of simplicity and relatability in political campaigning.

In essence, Anyidoho’s reflections serve to underscore the enduring impact of seemingly small, personal moments in political campaigns, demonstrating how they can capture public imagination and contribute to a candidate's broader appeal.