- Dr. Mathew Opoku Prempeh (NAPO), the former Minister of Education and Energy, and current running mate to Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has failed to deliver the level of impact expected from a vice-presidential candidate in the New Patriotic Party (NPP) campaign. While Dr. Bawumia played a pivotal role in the 2016 elections by engaging in numerous lectures and community outreach, Dr. Opoku Prempeh’s campaign approach has been far less effective. Instead of focusing on key issues and policies, NAPO has often veered off track, frequently referring to his opponent, John Mahama, rather than providing solutions to the pressing challenges faced by Ghanaians. This lack of focus is undermining the NPP’s overall message and credibility.
Dr. Bawumia’s success as a running mate in 2016 was largely due to his ability to communicate a clear, issues-based campaign. His engagement on university campuses and in communities helped shape the narrative around the NPP’s vision, leading to a significant victory. However, NAPO has struggled to mirror this approach, with many questioning his ability to articulate the NPP’s policies. His tendency to engage in less substantive discussions and his failure to address critical issues directly are damaging the party’s chances of winning the upcoming elections. This ineffective campaign strategy could ultimately affect Dr. Bawumia’s bid for the presidency.
As a political analyst, I would strongly advise the NPP to reassess NAPO’s role in the campaign. His current approach is not helping the party’s cause, and the NPP must guide their running mate to adopt a more focused, issues-based campaign strategy. Dr. Opoku Prempeh needs to shift his approach, engage more effectively with voters, and stay true to the NPP’s vision if the party is to succeed in the 2024 general elections.
We’re one people. Ghana first.
William Boadi
Political analyst.
+233541935106.