The National Chairman of the Progressive People’s Party (PPP), Nana Ofori Owusu, has criticized Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia for describing himself as a “driver’s mate” in the Akufo-Addo-led government.
Speaking on Peace FM, Owusu expressed concern that Bawumia’s characterization is problematic, as someone widely regarded as an “economic Messiah” seeks to distance himself from the government.
Mr Owusu emphasized that the vice president holds the position to assist and contribute productively to the president’s reliance on the country’s progress.
He contested the notion that being a “mate” doesn’t necessitate possessing the qualities of a driver to step into the driver’s role.
“It is inappropriate to characterize a dignified individual in such a manner. We recognize his role as an economic leader, actively contributing to advisory bodies and implementing innovative ideas. However, the narrative suggesting that his boss hinders him from fulfilling his responsibilities is perilous. This situation reflects the challenge of wanting contradictory things simultaneously
“The new team must address and streamline this narrative, as a person cannot simultaneously be enthusiastic and indifferent. Referring to him as a “mate” is inaccurate; he is a co-driver. The role of a mate does not inherently require driving skills or a license, unlike that of a vice president who is constitutionally ready to assume the presidential duties when required. The distinction lies in the readiness and responsibilities associated with being a co-driver, akin to the vice president’s role,” he added.
Dr. Bawumia’s speech, serving as an opening to his official campaign launch following his election as the Flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party in November 2023, conveyed his humble acknowledgment of playing the role of a driver’s mate in the government.
“Speaking on Peace FM, Owusu expressed concern that Bawumia’s characterization is problematic, as someone widely regarded as an “economic Messiah” seeks to distance himself from the government.
Mr Owusu emphasized that the vice president holds the position to assist and contribute productively to the president’s reliance on the country’s progress.
He contested the notion that being a “mate” doesn’t necessitate possessing the qualities of a driver to step into the driver’s role.
“It is inappropriate to characterize a dignified individual in such a manner. We recognize his role as an economic leader, actively contributing to advisory bodies and implementing innovative ideas. However, the narrative suggesting that his boss hinders him from fulfilling his responsibilities is perilous. This situation reflects the challenge of wanting contradictory things simultaneously
The new team must address and streamline this narrative, as a person cannot simultaneously be enthusiastic and indifferent. Referring to him as a “mate” is inaccurate; he is a co-driver. The role of a mate does not inherently require driving skills or a license, unlike that of a vice president who is constitutionally ready to assume the presidential duties when required. The distinction lies in the readiness and responsibilities associated with being a co-driver, akin to the vice president’s role.,” he added.
Dr. Bawumia’s speech, serving as an opening to his official campaign launch following his election as the Flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party in November 2023, conveyed his humble acknowledgment of playing the role of a driver’s mate in the government.
He expressed his aspiration to assume the position of the driver if elected as President.
“As Vice President I am like a driver’s mate. But if, by the Grace of God, you make me President, I will be in the driver’s seat with constitutionally mandated authority to pursue my vision and my priorities,” he added.
The Vice President highlighted the significant achievements of the Akufo-Addo-led Government over the past seven years and outlined his vision for Ghana, anticipating a potential election as President on December 7.
Since becoming the Flagbearer, Dr. Bawumia has consistently communicated his dedication to digitizing Ghana’s economy, promoting sustainable job creation, and establishing an inclusive system aligned with global requirements.
In his victory address on November 4, 2023, Dr. Bawumia shared his vision for building an inclusive, food self-sufficient, data-driven, and systems-based nation actively participating in the global digital revolution, as he aspires to lead the country.