President Akufo-Addo has called on former President Mahama to acknowledge his role in the Free SHS initiative during the unveiling of Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh (NAPO) as the running mate to Vice President Bawumia.
“If today Mahama thinks Free SHS is good, he should give me my stone,” President Akufo-Addo remarked to a cheering crowd at the Jubilee Park in Kumasi.
The President reiterated this statement twice in Kumasi: first at the Manhyia Palace, where the NPP introduced NAPO to the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, as Dr. Bawumia’s running mate, and later at the Jubilee Park during the public unveiling.
He emphasized that the success and widespread acceptance of the Free SHS policy have made it a key campaign message, explaining why the former President has now aligned himself with the initiative.
Additionally, President Nana Addo praised Dr. Bawumia and NAPO for their competence, dedication, and loyalty to his administration and the nation.
He highlighted their significant contributions to his 2016 campaign, leading to NAPO’s appointment as the Minister for Education, where he excelled in implementing the Free SHS policy despite widespread opposition and considerable challenges.
The President urged party supporters and Ghanaians to vote based on the demonstrated competence of Dr. Bawumia and NAPO over the past eight years, asserting that this is the best way to ensure the policy’s continuity.
It is worth noting that former President Mahama, during a media engagement in Accra on September 8, 2024, affirmed his unwavering commitment to the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) policy.
“The Free SHS policy is here to stay, and I am dedicated to enhancing it,” he stated, recognizing the policy’s importance.
This marks a significant shift from years of criticism by the opposition party’s flagbearer and leading members.