Why can’t Bawumia pick his own running mate? – Nyaho-Tamakloe quizzes

Prominent New Patriotic Party (NPP) member Dr. Nyaho Nyaho-Tamakloe has raised eyebrows within the party by alleging that Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh was imposed as the running mate to Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia for the upcoming 2024 presidential election.

Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe expressed his concerns in response to reports that Dr. Bawumia had presented Dr. Opoku Prempeh’s name as his choice for running mate.

In an interview with 3FM, Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe reiterated his belief that Dr. Bawumia was not given the freedom to select his preferred running mate independently.

He referenced historical precedents within the NPP and other political parties, where presidential candidates traditionally had autonomy in choosing their running mates without external influence.

“I know for a fact that he can’t pick his own running mate and I made mention of this almost seven months ago,” Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe stated, highlighting his earlier predictions about potential interference in the selection process.

He compared Dr. Bawumia’s situation unfavorably with past presidential candidates from various political backgrounds who had the liberty to make their own decisions regarding running mates.

“Bawumia’s position, he will find it difficult to pick his own running mate. Rawlings picked his own running mate, nobody would dare bring anyone to him and say ‘this one should go with you’. He fielded Ackaah and he failed, he changed him to another person. Kufuor picked his own running mate.”

“First round, second round, I was present. Not that someone was telling me. Atta Mills picked his own running mate, Mahama picked his own running mate. Akufo-Addo, scene one, picked his own running mate, scene two, picked his own running mate. Why can’t Bawumia pick his own running mate?” he quizzed.

Dr. Bawumia, the current NPP flagbearer, had reportedly requested more time to consult before finalizing his decision on a running mate.

However, the eventual announcement of Dr. Opoku Prempeh, the Energy Minister and Member of Parliament for Manhyia South, has sparked controversy and debate within political circles.