In a significant move ahead of the 2024 presidential elections, the flagbearer of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has chosen Energy Minister Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, popularly known as NAPO, as his running mate.
According to sources within the presidency, Dr. Bawumia met with President Nana Akufo-Addo on Tuesday night to discuss his decision. During the meeting, President Akufo-Addo offered his counsel and subsequently endorsed Dr. Bawumia’s choice.
Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, 56, is a dentist and seasoned politician. He is an alumnus of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST). NAPO entered Parliament in 2008 and has been re-elected in 2012, 2016, and 2020. Throughout his parliamentary career, he has served on several key committees, including Health, Appointments, and Defence and Interior. In 2017, he was appointed as the Education Minister, further solidifying his political standing.
The anticipated formal presentation of Dr. Opoku Prempeh’s name to President Akufo-Addo marks the culmination of months of speculation and anticipation among NPP members and supporters. This strategic choice is seen as a move to balance the ticket geographically and politically, with Dr. Bawumia hailing from northern Ghana and Dr. Opoku Prempeh representing the Ashanti region, a crucial stronghold for the NPP.
Polls conducted among NPP party executives have consistently favored Dr. Opoku Prempeh as the top choice for the running mate position. His selection is expected to strengthen the NPP’s position as they prepare for the general elections scheduled for December 7, 2024.
Source: Christian Kpesese || Eagleghana