Dr. Kwasi Amakye Boateng, a political scientist at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), has offered insights into the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) strategic selection of Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, affectionately known as Napo, as the running mate for Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.
According to Amakye Boateng, Napo’s selection is aimed at consolidating support within the Ashanti region, a key stronghold for the NPP that has experienced internal divisions.
The political contest intensifies as the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the NPP gear up for the December elections. The NDC has nominated John Dramani Mahama and Prof. Jane Naana Opoku Agyeman as their flagbearer and running mate, respectively.
Meanwhile, the NPP, following months of consultations, has officially endorsed Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia and Napo to represent them in the upcoming elections.
Amakye Boateng, speaking on the Hot Morning Drive with Agya Owusu-Ansah, emphasized that while Napo is well-regarded within the NPP, he faces the challenge of extending his popularity across the broader Ghanaian electorate.
Amakye Boateng highlighted the critical role Napo must play in rallying the Ashanti region’s support and addressing the divisions within the party to ensure a unified front going into the elections.
Additionally, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the NPP, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wuntumi, who initially opposed Napo’s candidacy, has since pledged his support.
Amakye Boateng praised Wuntumi’s decision, stating that unity and collective effort are essential for the NPP’s success in the December polls.
He believes that with coordinated support and strategic campaigning, the NPP can effectively position itself for a strong electoral performance.
