Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, the running mate to the National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer, John Mahama Dramani, has responded to criticisms regarding her age by Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin.
The Majority Leader had questioned her suitability for the role based on her age, with Prof Opoku-Agyemang being 72 years old and Mr. Mahama 65.
Speaking to female media professionals in Accra, Prof Opoku-Agyemang confidently expressed pride in her age and addressed the remarks from Alexander Afenyo-Markin, which many viewed as attempts to undermine her candidacy by focusing on age rather than qualifications and achievements.
She emphasized that her extensive experience and wisdom accumulated over the years would be invaluable assets in her potential role should the NDC win the election.
Prof Opoku-Agyemang underscored her deep background and knowledge, asserting her readiness to contribute effectively to national leadership.
The professor urged the public to look beyond age and recognize the significance of experience and competence in leadership, which she believes are crucial for the advancement and development of the nation.
Responding to the criticisms, Prof Opoku-Agyemang questioned the substance of the remarks made about her age, suggesting they were distractions from more pertinent issues.
She challenged critics to focus on substantive matters rather than resorting to unnecessary distractions.
She concluded by affirming her contentment with herself and expressing gratitude for her journey so far, believing that God will continue to guide her and others toward further achievements.
“Let everybody understand that I’m very proud of every minute God has given me, and if he gives me more, I’ll be more grateful. But my life is in His hands not anybody’s hands. I don’t consider my age as a nuisance, I consider it as a blessing, so that is it.
“What else is there to say? Is that all they could say? Did they also say that I was corrupt? Why couldn’t they say that I was insulting people?.”
“You see, a lot of these things we must see as unnecessary and unuseful distractions. Is that all they can say? They should find other forms. What about their own selves? I never said I was an angel but I don’t think I’ve killed anybody’s child.
“So I’m happy with myself, I’m proud of how far God has brought me and I believe God will take everybody much further,” she insisted.