Former Central Regional Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Bernard Allotey Jacobs, has indicated that the Energy Minister, Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh, is best placed to become the running mate of the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr Mahamudu Bawumia.
Speaking on a panel discussion on Peace FM’s Kokrokoo on April 24, 2024, Allotey Jacobs dismissed the idea that regional biases play a role in the selection process, considering it a tactic to influence decision-making.
“They did the same to President Mahama, suggesting that if he didn’t choose a Voltarian, certain consequences would follow. Accusations were made that her (Prof Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang’s) own people didn’t vote for her. All those things are just lies. Personally, I support Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh; I believe he is the best fit for that position,” he said.
He also noted that there is mounting pressure on New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, to announce his running mate for the 2024 elections.
Allotey Jacobs described such pressures as common in politics, often driven by individuals seeking personal benefits.
“I am on the issue of pressure being mounted on Dr. Bawumia to name his running mate. Yes, there is indeed too much pressure. It’s a common practice; others have faced similar pressure,” he said in an interview.
He compared this situation to the pressure former President John Mahama faced before he announced his running mate.
A group known as the Patriotic Movement for Bawumia is urging the flagbearer of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia to announce his running mate before the end of May 2024.
The pro-NPP group argues that an early announcement of the running mate would allow the party to kickstart a robust campaign, thus increasing their chances of success in the 2024 presidential and parliamentary elections.
During a press conference held in Kumasi on Sunday, April 21, 2024, the group stressed the importance of selecting a running mate to expand the party’s campaign outreach. They believe that the chosen individual will play a crucial role in disseminating the party’s message across the country.
James Aggrey Fiifi Eshun, the spokesperson for the group and the second vice chairperson for the Oforikrom Constituency, cautioned Dr. Bawumia against succumbing to pressure from individuals vying for the running mate position.