The chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Juaben constituency, Alex Sarfo Kantanka, has raised allegations suggesting that Ashanti regional constituency chairpersons are facing pressure to endorse Matthew Opoku Prempeh (NAPO), as the running mate for Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.
Kantanka revealed that he was contacted by Fiifi Mensah, the chairman of Bantama constituency, who urged him to sign a petition in support of NAPO as the potential running mate for Dr. Bawumia.
Expressing his reservations, Kantanka emphasized that decisions of such importance should not be swayed by financial incentives or endorsements from party officials.
During an interview on Okay FM on April 9, 2024, Kantanka disclosed that he had been invited to sign the petition alongside other constituency chairpersons but opted not to participate in the process.
When questioned by the host regarding rumors of monetary inducements, Chairman Aluta confirmed the existence of such pressure, recounting his own experience of being approached by Chairman Fiifi to endorse NAPO.
He highlighted the importance of selecting a running mate based on merit and suitability rather than monetary influences.
Chairman Aluta further expressed concern over the notion of party chairpersons being involved in endorsing a candidate for the vice presidency, emphasizing the need for transparent and merit-based selection processes within the party.
He concluded by condemning the idea of the vice presidential slot being allocated to the highest bidder, stressing the importance of upholding the integrity and principles of the party.
“He mentioned that the letter was with Joe Carl, the chairman of Nhyiaeso. I agreed to come and sign. On my way to the location, the Kumawu chairman called me to inquire if I had been contacted. I confirmed, but I pretended not to understand the nature of the conversation.”
“He also mentioned that Fiifi had called him to come and sign. I felt distressed, so I decided not to go, and he did the same.
“The party shouldn’t be run based on who can pay money.
“Since I became chairman, I have never encountered a situation where chairmen are supposed to endorse a candidate for the vice presidency as a running mate. Never in my life as an NPP member have I seen such a scenario where the selection of a running mate should be based on the endorsement of party chairmen.
“So, what is going on? It confirms what people are saying. The running mate slot is being given to the highest bidder,” he added.