In a recent rally held in Old Tafo Pankrono, Ashanti Region, Dr. Mathew Opoku Prempeh, the Vice Presidential candidate for the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), publicly criticized former President John Mahama of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), labeling him as a “spent force” in Ghana’s political landscape. Addressing an enthusiastic crowd, Dr. Opoku Prempeh argued that Mahama’s tenure as President was marked by a lack of substantive achievements, and he suggested that Mahama could not provide the necessary solutions for the challenges Ghana currently faces. This gathering, which saw a vast number of NPP supporters in attendance, was indicative of the party’s efforts to consolidate its support ahead of the 2024 elections.
During his visit, Dr. Opoku Prempeh took time to engage with various community members, including market women and local leaders. He also inaugurated the new Pankrono Police Station, a project symbolizing the tangible development that is being overseen by the NPP’s leadership. This event was complemented by a stop at Assafuah 92.7 FM, the constituency’s first community radio station, established by local MP Vincent Ekow Assafuah. Through such initiatives, Dr. Opoku Prempeh aimed to showcase the positive impact of the NPP’s governance while highlighting the party’s commitment to enhancing the socio-economic environment in the area.
Focusing on the legacy of John Mahama, Dr. Opoku Prempeh pointed to significant failures during Mahama’s presidency, specifically criticizing his handling of the energy crisis characterized by prolonged power outages commonly referred to as ‘Dumsor.’ He emphasized that the challenges of the current government should not be equated with the severe power situation during Mahama’s administration. The rally served as a platform for Dr. Opoku Prempeh to reiterate the NPP’s commitment to tackling ongoing energy challenges while assuring the public of ongoing investigations into the recent power disruptions plaguing the nation.
Dr. Opoku Prempeh further highlighted controversial decisions made by Mahama, such as the cancellation of allowances for nursing and teacher trainees, framing these as signs of ineffective leadership. This narrative aims to create an unfavorable comparison between Mahama’s past governance and the intentions of the NPP, particularly under the leadership of current Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. Dr. Opoku Prempeh urged constituents to interpret any future aspirations from Mahama to regain the presidency through the lens of his past performance, reinforcing the NPP’s portrayal of Mahama as unfit for leadership.
In addition to discussing the leadership capabilities of Mahama, he called for the public to remain vigilant against any perceived attempts by the NDC to undermine the efforts of the current administration. This rally was not only about addressing past leadership failures; it was also about energizing party loyalists and rallying support for both Dr. Bawumia and MP Vincent Ekow Assafuah in the upcoming elections. Dr. Opoku Prempeh’s message urged voters to make a decisive choice in favor of the NPP to ensure continued progress and development for Ghana.
Vincent Ekow Assafuah also delivered remarks at the rally, reinforcing Dr. Opoku Prempeh’s message and urging support for the NPP’s agenda. The synergy between the Vice Presidential candidate and the local MP was evident as they both emphasized a vision of prosperity and progress that they believe can only be achieved through NPP leadership. The rally concluded with high hopes for a successful campaign, positioning the NPP as the party capable of driving Ghana forward amidst challenges, and contrasting sharply with the legacy of the NDC under Mahama’s leadership.
