There appears to be a growing inclination within the New Patriotic Party (NPP) for the selection of a running mate from the Ashanti Region, described as the party’s “bread basket,” according to former Speaker of Parliament and NPP Council of Elders member, Prof Aaron Michael Oquaye.
In an exclusive interview with 3News’ Beatrice Adu, Prof Oquaye disclosed that there is a positive reception to the idea of choosing a candidate from the Ashanti Region.
He emphasized the perceived importance of regional balance, particularly from the Ashanti Region, suggesting that it would be reasonable and sensible for the running mate to hail from there.
“It appears that there is a feeling generally that if we had a candidate from the Ashanti Region,…the bread basket of the party, it will be reasonable and sensible to balance the ticket. Therefore, it is important to factor that into the equation….,” he suggested.
While the NPP’s constitution does not explicitly mandate regional balance in the selection of running mates, the party has traditionally considered regional representation.
Historical examples include Albert Adu Boahen choosing a running mate from the north (Roland Issifu Alhassan), former President John Kufour selecting Aliu Mahama, and the current President Nana Akufo Addo opting for Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.
Referring to Clause six(b) of Chapter six (6) of Ghana’s 1992 Constitution, Prof Oquaye highlighted the importance of achieving reasonable regional and gender balance in public offices.
Additionally, Prof Oquaye advised that the potential vice-presidential candidate should not vie for the president’s position, emphasizing the need for harmony and no clash of personalities with the president-elect.