Effutu MP and Majority Leader in Parliament, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has issued a stern warning to his colleagues and party sympathizers within the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to avoid internal conflicts as the party prepares to announce its running mate for the 2024 elections.
Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, Afenyo-Markin stressed the importance of unity over division, especially as the decision regarding a running mate for the NPP’s flagbearer, Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, remains pending.
Afenyo-Markin emphasized the need for NPP members, particularly MPs, to exercise caution in their public statements and interactions about the running mate selection process.
“We’ve all heard the discussions about who might be the running mate, but no final decision has been made. The party has structures in place to handle this,” he stated.
He encouraged his colleagues to focus on collective goals rather than personal preferences.
The Effutu MP highlighted the potential harm of unguarded remarks, urging his colleagues to be mindful of their language.
None of us is perfect. We must be careful about how we describe each other and the words we use. Such language may not be helpful,” he said.
He assured that Dr. Bawumia, with input from party elders, would select a running mate who best serves the party’s interests.
Recent reports indicate that Dr. Bawumia has consulted President Akufo-Addo regarding his choice of running mate for the December 7 presidential election.
During a meeting at the Jubilee House on June 25, Bawumia presented Energy Minister Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, also known as NAPO, for consideration. President Akufo-Addo provided feedback and ultimately accepted Bawumia’s choice.
However, this decision has not been universally welcomed within the party. Andy Appiah-Kubi, a member of the NPP’s National Council and MP for Asante Akim North, voiced his opposition.
He argued that Dr. Opoku Prempeh lacks broad support within the party, particularly among MPs, and may struggle to campaign effectively across various constituencies.
“We need someone who can engage with the grassroots, deliver votes, submit to the presidency, and bridge the gap between Parliament and the executive,” Appiah-Kubi stated.