Asantehene’s Advice to Napo: Earn NPP’s Trust

The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has urged his grandson, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, to work diligently as the running mate for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), ensuring the party never regrets its decision.

A Call for Humility and Unity

During a special durbar at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi, the Asantehene advised Dr. Prempeh to remain humble and respectful towards the party’s presidential candidate, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. He emphasized the importance of teamwork and loyalty, cautioning Dr. Prempeh against actions that might lead to regret from the NPP.

Otumfuo Osei Tutu II expressed his delight at the nomination of his grandson as the running mate, considering it good news for the Royal House. He urged Dr. Prempeh to take directives from Dr. Bawumia and not to do anything that might make the presidential candidate regret his choice. “Your nomination is a source of pride for the Royal House. Be humble, take directives from your boss, and do nothing to make Dr. Bawumia rue his choice,” he said.

Addressing reports of Dr. Prempeh’s alleged disrespect, the Asantehene expressed confidence in his grandson’s upbringing and character, dismissing the rumors. He urged Dr. Prempeh to support Dr. Bawumia wholeheartedly, helping to achieve their shared goals for Ghana. “I doubt these reports. As someone raised by me, I know Dr. Prempeh has respect for people,” Otumfuo stated.

The Asantehene also entrusted Dr. Bawumia with the responsibility of guiding Dr. Prempeh and informing him of any missteps. “I have entrusted my kin into the care of Dr. Bawumia. Let me know if he errs so I can advise him,” he added. He concluded by assuring continuous prayers for the candidates, urging them to communicate their achievements and plans to Ghanaians for support.

Seeking Blessings and Support

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, who presented the NPP’s flag bearer and his running mate to the Asantehene, highlighted the significance of introducing the duo to the traditional ruler and seeking his blessings. He praised Dr. Bawumia for his unwavering support during his tenure as Vice President and expressed confidence in the new pairing’s potential to lead Ghana effectively.

“The pair of Bawumia and Prempeh will develop Ghana better than I have,” President Akufo-Addo asserted, urging Ghanaians to vote massively for them. He further explained that Dr. Prempeh’s selection was unanimously approved by the NPP’s National Council, recognizing his hard work and dedication as a minister of state, particularly in the success of the Free SHS program.

The President noted the near completion of his term and the necessity to elect new leadership to continue the party’s progress. “As my term nears its end, we need to elect a candidate who can lead our party to victory in the next elections. Dr. Bawumia was elected at our congress, and he has chosen Dr. Prempeh to complement him,” he said. 

Prayer and Purpose

The Asantehene assured continuous prayers for the candidates and encouraged them to share their achievements and future plans with Ghanaians. “Tell the people what you have done and what you plan to do, and they will support you,” he advised.

President Akufo-Addo reiterated the need for new leadership as his term nears its end, emphasizing the importance of electing a capable candidate to continue the party’s mission. The presentation of Dr. Bawumia and Dr. Prempeh to the Asantehene, he noted, was a customary step to garner royal support and blessings.

Highlighting Dr. Prempeh’s achievements, President Akufo-Addo credited him for the successful implementation of the Free SHS policy, which has significantly improved access to secondary education in Ghana. “The success of the Free SHS policy is due to Dr. Prempeh’s hard work. His dedication to the party and government has earned him this position,” he said.

The President concluded by expressing his belief that the Bawumia-Prempeh ticket would bring more development to Ghana. “With your support, the Bawumia-Prempeh team will continue to develop Ghana and build on the successes we have achieved,” he stated.

As the NPP prepares for the upcoming elections, the focus remains on unity, respect, and effective communication of their vision to the electorate. With the backing of traditional leaders and the party’s confidence, Dr. Bawumia and Dr. Prempeh aim to lead Ghana towards continued progress and development.

Source: Graphic Online