Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, widely known as Napo and the running mate to the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Flagbearer Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has paid a courtesy call on Nene Sakite II, the Paramount Chief of the Manya Krobo Traditional Area.
The visit aimed to seek the chief’s prayers and guidance as Dr. Prempeh steps into his new role.
In his address, Dr. Prempeh emphasized the crucial role of traditional leaders in governance and national development.
“It is high time politicians paid attention to the important roles that chiefs play in governance to foster development,” he stated.
Napo, the outgoing Member of Parliament for Manhyia South Constituency, noted the importance of receiving blessings and guidance from chiefs across the country after being nominated as the NPP‘s vice-presidential candidate.
“Without the chiefs, it would be difficult to promote national unity, stability, growth, and development,” Dr. Prempeh remarked.
He acknowledged the significant contributions of chiefs to the nation’s independence struggles and called for them to be granted the respect and dignity they deserve to avoid conflicts.
Dr. Prempeh also appealed to the people of Manya Krobo to support the NPP in the upcoming general election to ensure their voices are represented in governance. He underscored the importance of their votes in shaping the future of the country.
In response, Nene Sakite II, who also serves as the President of the Eastern Regional House of Chiefs, highlighted the historical neglect of the chieftaincy institution by successive governments.
He urged that issues communicated by chiefs on behalf of their citizens be addressed promptly and not overlooked. Nene Sakite advised Dr. Prempeh to maintain his respect for chiefs even after being elected as Vice President.
The paramount chief praised Dr. Prempeh for his visit and recognition of the traditional leaders’ roles in governance, noting that it reflected Napo’s royal heritage.