Accra, Ghana – The Ghanaian government and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) have dismissed alleged polls by the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) suggesting that Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, commonly known as Napo, is leading the race to become Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s running mate in the upcoming elections.
The alleged NIB polls reportedly indicated that Napo, the current Minister of Energy, was the preferred choice among several potential candidates. However, both the government and the NPP have refuted these claims, questioning the legitimacy and origin of the purported polls.
Government spokesperson, Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, addressed the issue in a press briefing. “The government has not sanctioned any such polls by the NIB. These reports are baseless and should be disregarded. The selection process for the running mate is ongoing and will be conducted with transparency and due diligence,” he stated.
The NPP’s communications director, Yaw Buaben Asamoa, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that the party has not yet finalized its decision. “The NPP is committed to a thorough and fair process in choosing the running mate for Dr. Bawumia. Any premature reports or polls are speculative and do not reflect the party’s position,” Asamoa noted.
Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, a prominent figure within the NPP and a key member of President Nana Akufo-Addo’s administration, has been widely regarded as a strong contender for the vice-presidential slot. His tenure as Minister of Education and current role in the energy sector have bolstered his reputation as a capable leader.
Despite the speculation, Dr. Prempeh has maintained a measured response, focusing on his ministerial duties. “My priority remains to serve the people of Ghana in my current capacity. Any decision regarding the vice-presidential candidacy will be made by the party leadership in due course,” he commented.
The selection of a running mate for Dr. Bawumia is a critical decision for the NPP as it prepares for the next general elections. The chosen candidate will need to complement Bawumia’s economic expertise with strong political acumen and broad appeal among the electorate.
Political analysts suggest that the NPP will consider several factors in making their choice, including regional balance, party loyalty, and the candidate’s ability to attract voters. “The running mate must not only bring competence but also enhance the party’s appeal across different regions and demographics,” said political analyst Dr. Kwesi Jonah.
The controversy over the alleged NIB polls highlights the intense interest and speculation surrounding the vice-presidential nomination. It also underscores the importance of credible information and the potential impact of misinformation in shaping public perception and political discourse.
As the NPP continues its selection process, party supporters and the general public are keenly watching for official announcements. The decision is expected to play a significant role in the party’s campaign strategy and overall performance in the upcoming elections.
In the meantime, the NPP leadership has urged party members and the public to remain patient and refrain from spreading unverified information. “We ask everyone to await the official announcement from the party. The NPP is united and focused on winning the next elections,” Asamoa affirmed.
The outcome of the vice-presidential selection will undoubtedly influence the political landscape in Ghana, as the country gears up for a competitive electoral season. The NPP aims to maintain its hold on power, while the opposition parties are strategizing to challenge their incumbency.
Source: ghanaweb.com
