Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, widely known as Napo, the 2024 Vice Presidential candidate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has unequivocally reaffirmed his unwavering support for Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia in the party’s upcoming flagbearer race. He categorically denied recent rumors suggesting his defection to the camp of Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, the former MP for Assin Central, labeling such claims as baseless fabrications. In an interview with Nene Odompleh of 1957 News, Napo emphasized his loyalty to Dr. Bawumia, highlighting the deep bond forged through their shared political journey, particularly Dr. Bawumia’s selection of Napo as his running mate for the 2024 general elections. He stressed that abandoning Dr. Bawumia at this juncture would constitute an act of profound betrayal, a notion he vehemently rejects.
Napo, who boasts a distinguished political career, having served as both Minister for Education and Minister for Energy, underscored his commitment to fostering unity within the NPP. His primary focus, he explained, is to consolidate party support behind whoever emerges victorious in the upcoming flagbearer election slated for January 31, 2026. He believes a united front is crucial for the party’s success in the 2028 general elections and expressed his dedication to working towards this goal regardless of the outcome of the internal contest. His experience in the previous election cycle, which he characterized as less than ideal, has further fueled his determination to promote harmony within the party ranks.
Reflecting on past internal divisions within the NPP, Napo expressed concern over the potentially damaging effects of factionalism. He recalled instances where individuals not aligned with the chosen flagbearer engaged in rhetoric and actions that ultimately harmed the party’s overall electoral prospects. He expressed hope that such detrimental behavior would not be repeated in the upcoming election cycle. He believes the party has learned valuable lessons from these past experiences, which have informed the decision to hold the flagbearer election earlier this time around. This strategic move, he argued, allows ample time for healing any internal rifts and consolidating party unity well in advance of the 2028 general elections.
Napo’s unwavering support for Dr. Bawumia stems not only from a sense of personal loyalty but also from a deep conviction that Bawumia possesses the qualities necessary to lead the NPP to victory. He believes Bawumia’s experience, vision, and commitment to the party’s ideals make him the most suitable candidate to steer the NPP forward. Furthermore, Napo views Bawumia’s leadership as crucial for uniting the party and bridging any divides that may have emerged during the internal contest.
Beyond his support for Dr. Bawumia, Napo’s commitment to party unity reflects a broader understanding of the challenges facing the NPP and the importance of presenting a united front to the electorate. He recognizes that internal divisions can be exploited by political opponents and undermine the party’s credibility. His emphasis on unity is therefore not merely a call for harmony but a strategic imperative for electoral success. He believes that by rallying behind the chosen flagbearer, regardless of individual preferences, the NPP can maximize its chances of winning the 2028 general elections and continuing to implement its agenda for the benefit of the nation.
In conclusion, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh’s reaffirmation of support for Dr. Bawumia, coupled with his emphasis on party unity, underscores his commitment to the NPP’s overall success. His stance serves as a reminder of the importance of loyalty, unity, and strategic thinking in the pursuit of political goals. By prioritizing the collective good of the party over individual ambitions, Napo hopes to contribute to a more cohesive and effective NPP, well-positioned to compete and win in future elections. His call for unity resonates with a broader message of putting the party’s interests first, a message that he believes is crucial for the NPP to regain and maintain its position as a dominant force in Ghanaian politics.
