The New Patriotic Party Chairman Jake Obetsebi Lamptey has expressed surprise about the resignation of Dr. Mahmoud Bawumia from his lucrative job as the country manager of the African Development Bank in Zimbabwe.

The 2008 vice presidential candidate of the NPP quit his job over the weekend ostensibly to lobby for another shot at the second most powerful position in Ghana’s politics.

His resignation comes at a time when the media has been busy speculating who the flagbearer, Nana Akufo-Addo could be picking for the 2012 General Elections.

Bawumia is perceived to be the choice for Nana Addo, but insiders are busy lobbying for the minority chief whip.

In reaction, the NPP Chair said the resignation, which he cannot independently confirm, came as surprise to him.

He debunked assertion the party may have played a role in forcing the technocrat to take that decision in order for him to have ample time to lobby party officials for the position.

He said "that will not be a noble thing to do."

He explained if Bawumia could resign from a job of that stature then it could mean he is serious and interested in the position as vice presidential candidate for the NPP.

He would not however say when the party would announce their Vice-presidential candidate or who the party considers as favorite for the job.