Kofi Abrefa Afena, who serves as the spokesperson for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Vice Presidential Candidate Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, has strongly refuted a viral report that accused Dr. Prempeh of making disrespectful comments about the Ga and Ewe communities. The report, which circulated on social media, claimed that Dr. Prempeh stated that “Gas and Ewes are Ghana’s problem; historically they shouldn’t have been part of Ghana.” In response to these allegations, Afena labeled the claims as “baseless and malicious,” asserting that they were a deliberate effort to create ethnic discord among Ghanaians.
In a statement released on Monday, Afena condemned the allegations as fabrications lacking any factual foundation. He emphasized that Dr. Prempeh has consistently shown respect for Ghana’s diverse ethnic groups and has championed unity and progress throughout the country. He described the report as a malicious attempt to slander Dr. Prempeh’s reputation and to undermine his dedication to serving all Ghanaians, irrespective of their ethnic backgrounds. Afena underscored that such divisive narratives are detrimental to the nation’s cohesion.
Afena went on to highlight Dr. Prempeh’s commendable track record, specifically referencing his pivotal role in the Free Senior High School policy when he served as Education Minister. This initiative has significantly enhanced educational access for students hailing from various ethnic backgrounds in Ghana. By showcasing this accomplishment, Afena illustrated the Vice Presidential Candidate’s commitment to inclusivity and his pursuit of equal opportunities for all Ghanaians, regardless of their ethnic identity.
Moreover, Afena urged the public to dismiss the false claims propagated through the viral report and appealed to media outlets to engage in responsible journalism by verifying facts prior to publication. He stressed the importance of maintaining high standards in news reporting, warning that the proliferation of unsubstantiated allegations could jeopardize social harmony and trust in media institutions. He called for a collective effort in combating misinformation that could incite unease and division among different ethnic groups in Ghana.
Overall, Afena reiterated that Dr. Prempeh’s commitment to fostering a united and prosperous Ghana remains unwavering. The spokesperson conveyed that Dr. Prempeh is focused on promoting policies that aim to improve the lives of all citizens, demonstrating a stark contrast to the divisive narrative advanced by the viral report. He positioned Dr. Prempeh as a leader dedicated to national service, who prioritizes the needs and aspirations of the entire Ghanaian populace over any sectarian interests.
In conclusion, the allegations against Dr. Prempeh come as part of a broader dialogue about ethnicity and national unity in Ghana. Afena’s robust defense highlights the importance of genuine respect for diversity and the need for political figures to advocate for inclusive development. As the political climate intensifies in the lead-up to elections, it is imperative for candidates and their representatives to remain focused on policies that advance collective progress while actively countering disinformation campaigns that could threaten the country’s social fabric.
