Former NPP Member of Parliament for Manhyia North Collins Owusu Amankwah has urged the New Patriotic Party to confirm Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh popularly known as Napo as running mate to start the 2028 campaign in earnest. He said early confirmation will energize the base, streamline party messaging and give the flagbearer ample time to build national appeal.
The call comes amid internal discussions within the NPP over pairing, timing and regional balance for the 2028 presidential ticket. Amankwah argued that Napo, a former Education Minister and Energy Minister and current Member of Parliament for Manhyia South, brings grassroots appeal, Ashanti Region dominance and executive experience that complement the party electoral strategy, particularly in securing the Ashanti stronghold and appealing to youthful voters.
He stressed that prolonged uncertainty over the running mate slot creates factional lobbying and media speculation that distracts from policy articulation and opposition accountability. According to Mr Amankwah, confirming Napo now will allow the party to launch the 2028 campaign with unity, clarity and momentum ahead of the Electoral Commission roadmap.
In Ghana presidential election architecture, political parties select a presidential candidate who then nominates a running mate in consultation with the National Council in line with party constitutions. The running mate becomes vice presidential candidate under Article 60 of the 1992 Constitution and plays crucial role in campaigning, regional mobilization and policy communication. Evergreen considerations include regional balance, religious tolerance, gender inclusion, parliamentary experience and ability to attract swing voters, particularly in Ashanti, Eastern, Greater Accra and Northern regions.
Amankwah said the NPP must learn from 2024 campaign lessons where delayed decisions affected coordination and resource allocation, urging the National Executive Committee to conclude consultations swiftly. He believes a Bawumia Napo ticket, if confirmed early, will enable coherent grassroots tour, manifesto development and fundraising while countering NDC narrative with a united front ahead of 2028.
Source: #Howedey.com
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Author: Korkor Anumu
