In a strategic move aimed at bolstering his bid for the presidency in the upcoming elections, Vice-President Mahamudu Bawumia has officially presented Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, popularly known as NAPO, as his running mate to the Majority group in Parliament.
The announcement, which comes after speculations and behind-the-scenes negotiations, was made during a meeting between Vice -President Bawumia and the leadership of Parliament’s Majority Caucus, at the Vice President’s residence on Friday 28th June 2024, where the Veep also tasked Afenyo-Markin, the MP for Effutu, with relaying this pivotal information to the Majority Caucus in Parliament.
Afenyo-Markin confirmed, that “Our party leader, Dr Bawumia, met with the leadership of the majority caucus of Parliament and conveyed that Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh is his choice for running mate.”
He further noted positive feedback from the caucus, indicating broad support pending formal endorsement at an upcoming National Council meeting as per the NPP’s constitution. “I have engaged the caucus, and the feedback has been positive. The generality of the caucus is in support of his choice. For it to be official, there has to be a National Council meeting for the final decision to be taken”, he stated.
Meanwhile, the NPP is likely to convene a National Council meeting next Tuesday where Dr Bawumia will formally present his choice to the party’s top brass for their consideration and approval, in line with the NPP’s constitution.
NAPO, a trained medical doctor turned politician, is widely recognized for his role in implementing major reforms in Ghana’s education system, including the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy, which has significantly increased access to secondary education across the country. His nomination as Bawumia’s running mate is seen as a strategic move to appeal to various demographic sections of the electorate.
As preparations for the elections intensify, Vice President Bawumia and Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh are soon expected to embark on a nationwide campaign tour to engage with voters and outline their vision for Ghana’s future. With their combined experience and dedication to public service, they aim to secure a third mandate for the incumbent New Patriotic Party, campaigning on a message of delivering bold solutions to drive towards the future of the country.
