Odeneho Kwaku Appiah, popularly known as COKA, a prominent figure within the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has emphasized the urgency for the party’s flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, to announce his running mate ahead of the 2024 general elections.
Kwaku Appiah expressed concern over the delay, which he believes is causing a rift within the party and giving all party members ‘sleepless nights.’
“When gauging public sentiment through various channels such as social media, marketplaces, churches, and even funeral gatherings, it becomes evident that an overwhelming majority in the Ashanti Region are rallying behind one particular individual. In an analysis of key party stakeholders including regional ministers, MPs, regional chairmen, and constituency chairmen, the overwhelming consensus favors the popular candidate. Only a negligible minority expressed discomfort with the choice.”
Odeneho Kwaku Appiah, Former Ashanti Regional NPP Chairman Aspirant
Appiah’s comments come amidst a period of intense lobbying within the party, particularly in the Ashanti Region, over the selection of a running mate. He warned that the decision to pick the running mate from Ashanti Region could lead to tensions and divisions, which could potentially affect the party’s stronghold.
He appealed to the party’s flagbearer to expedite the selection process for the running mate, emphasizing the importance of timely decision-making to avoid potential crises and strengthen the party’s position.
Selection Of A Running Mate
The selection process for a running mate can test the party’s unity and strategy. A successful selection can strengthen the party’s unity and cohesion, which is crucial for a successful campaign. On the other hand, a divisive selection process can lead to tensions and divisions within the party, potentially affecting its performance in the elections.
Also, a popular running mate can significantly boost the party’s appeal, especially among the electorate. This can lead to increased voter turnout and potentially more votes for the NPP. The running mate’s popularity can also help in mobilizing the party’s base and attracting new voters.
Selecting a running mate with a distinct set of qualifications and experiences can diversify the party’s ticket, making it more appealing to a broader range of voters. This can include candidates with expertise in areas such as telecommunications, law, and international diplomacy, which can add value to the party’s campaign.
Moreover, having a running mate with a strong track record and potential for future leadership can prepare the party for the future. This can include candidates who have demonstrated their ability to lead and govern effectively, ensuring that the party is ready to step into power if it wins the elections.
“The primary criterion for the selection should be someone with widespread popularity and a track record of positively impacting lives, as this will translate into more votes for the party.”
Odeneho Kwaku Appiah, Former Ashanti Regional NPP Chairman Aspirant
Additionally, the selection of a running mate, especially a woman, can address gender representation within the party. This is crucial in a country like Ghana, where gender balance in political leadership is a significant issue. A woman running mate can also help in addressing regional representation, ensuring that the party’s ticket is representative of the various regions within the country.
The mood of the country is averse to presidential candidates without the needed know-how and expertise to help the country navigate current and future challenges. A running mate who can be trusted to help rescue the economy and push it on the path of growth is crucial.
The significance of having a popular running mate in the NPP’s campaign lies in its potential to enhance the party’s appeal, diversify its ticket, address gender and regional representation, strengthen the party’s unity, and prepare it for future leadership.
These qualities contribute significantly towards forming a balanced and effective leadership team capable of addressing the myriad of challenges Ghana faces. The selection of a running mate is not just about choosing a partner for the flag bearer but about selecting a leader who can complement the flag bearer’s strengths, address weaknesses, and appeal to a broad range of voters.
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