Private Legal Practitioner, Nana Yaw Osei, has urged Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia to boldly announce Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh as his running mate, suggesting that such a move could enhance his chances in the upcoming Presidential Election scheduled for December.
The Flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Bawumia, is yet to publicly disclose his choice for vice-presidential candidate, although reports indicate he has proposed the Member of Parliament for Manhyia South, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh to Akufo-Addo.
According to Lawyer Nana Yaw Osei, if indeed Dr. Bawumia’s preference is Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh (NAPO), he should promptly announce his decision without further delay.
“If it’s NAPO, he should announce it. While I can’t guarantee that choosing NAPO as VP will ensure victory, it could certainly bolster his prospects. Can you name another influential figure from the Ashanti Region, besides NAPO, who might also be of help?” he queried.
Speaking on Bresosem at Abusua FM with Kojo Marfo, Nana Yaw Osei emphasized the challenging nature of the upcoming 2024 election for the ruling party, citing issues of incumbency and waning trust among supporters.
He noted that “when people criticize the government and there is evidence to back their claims, it affects the party’s ticket.”
Addressing criticism from MP Andy Appiah Kubi of Asante Akim North regarding the Bawumia-NAPO ticket, Osei advised restraint and maturity in expressing dissent.
“Today, people have left the party because Bawumia is their flagbearer, but we say it’s a game of numbers.”
Osei highlighted Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh’s extensive political experience, arguing that no other potential VP candidate surpasses him in credentials.
“He recounted, “NAPO has been in Parliament since 2009, serving 16 years, and has held ministerial positions in the last eight years, including a stint at a troubled ministry.”
“I have heard the Chief of Staff’s name; she served two terms. I also heard about the Education Minister, Yaw Osei Adutwum, who is currently in his second term and is seeking re-election, even if he wants to be chosen. Naa Torshie and Ursula Owusu came to meet NAPO in Parliament,” he chuckled.
Regarding the nomination process, Mr Osei underscored that while the National Council must endorse the choice, the ultimate decision lies with the flagbearer, who understands the strategic needs of the campaign.
Background:
Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has communicated to President Akufo-Addo his preference for Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh as running mate for the December 2024 elections.
This decision was relayed during a meeting between Dr. Bawumia and President Akufo-Addo at the Jubilee House on Tuesday night [June 25, 2024].
The next step involves presenting Dr. Opoku Prempeh’s nomination to the NPP’s National Council, in accordance with Article 12 (b) of the party’s constitution, for official endorsement.