Director of Research and Innovation at Kumasi Technical University (KTU), Prof. Smart Sarpong, has expressed his support for Akosua Frema Osei-Opare, the Chief of Staff, as a strong candidate for the position of running mate.
During an interview on Kessben TV on Thursday, March 21, 2024, Prof. Sarpong compared Osei-Opare’s political prowess to that of the current NDC running mate, Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang.
He highlighted Osei-Opare’s political achievements, such as her grassroots experience as a former MP and her tenure as Chief of Staff, as factors that make her well-suited for higher office.
Prof. Sarpong emphasized Osei-Opare’s rise through the political ranks and her effectiveness in education, noting that her impact is comparable to that of Prof. Opoku-Agyemang.
He contrasted this with Prof. Opoku-Agyemang’s lack of political representation at the constituency level, suggesting that Osei-Opare’s grassroots political experience gives her an advantage in connecting with the electorate.
When it comes to discussions on who would better and ideally be the running mate and subsequent Vice President, it is more deserving and favourable for Frema Osei-Opare than Jane Naana Opoku. Because Frema was a grassroots MP before. For instance, she is a former Ayawaso West Wuogon Member of Parliament,” he stressed.
He indicated that “if both Mrs. Frema Osei-Opare and Prof. Jane go on a political campaign debate, it will be interesting because they will both have the flare to talk about their education portfolios, with Prof. Jane talking about UCC and Frema Osei-Opare talking about UG, which will be refreshing.”
Prof. Sarpong also addressed concerns about Frema Osei-Opare’s age potentially hindering her eligibility as a running mate, stating that divine intervention ultimately determines political appointments.
He emphasized the significance of Osei-Opare’s potential candidacy in strengthening the electoral prospects of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) and supporting Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia in securing victory in the 2024 elections.