Omanghana
Debate over Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh’s possible return as Dr Mahamudu Bawumia’s running mate for the 2028 elections is gathering momentum within the New Patriotic Party (NPP), with supporters advocating continuity while critics question the ticket’s electoral appeal.
Dr Keskine Osei Poku, the party’s Ashanti Regional Director of Communications, has backed the former Education and Energy Minister, popularly known as NAPO. He argues that Opoku Prempeh has grown politically since the 2024 campaign and deserves another opportunity to partner Bawumia.
Former Manhyia North MP Collins Owusu Amankwah has also called for an early confirmation of NAPO. He believes settling the running mate question would allow the party to begin promoting its presidential ticket and mobilizing voters ahead of the election.
However, the prospect of retaining the partnership has drawn criticism from leading NPP member Dr Arthur Kennedy, who has previously questioned NAPO’s effectiveness during the 2024 campaign.
Speaking on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show in February, Kennedy argued that some of NAPO’s public statements, including his comments about Ghana’s first president, Dr Kwame Nkrumah, had alienated voters. He urged Bawumia to consider whether another candidate could help broaden the party’s support.
Kennedy also advocated fresh faces and ideas as the NPP seeks to reconnect with the electorate following its 2024 defeat. His position contrasts with supporters’ argument that NAPO’s experience and political development justify retaining him.
The competing views highlight a central question in the party’s preparations for 2028: whether maintaining its previous partnership or choosing a new running mate offers the stronger route back to power.
Source: Omanghana
