The Minister for Energy, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, is urging Ghanaians to dismiss a video circulating in which he is purportedly heard describing Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia as useless.

In a press statement released on Tuesday, Dr. Prempeh’s spokesperson, Kofi Abrefa Afena, clarified that the comments attributed to his boss were made in 2014 as a response to the State of the Nation address delivered by then-President John Dramani Mahama.

Afena explained that the resurrection of this video is a deliberate attempt by detractors to cast Dr. Prempeh in a negative light.

“The said interview by Dr. Prempeh was in February 2014, in reaction to the State of the Nation Address of then President John Mahama where he blamed the country’s economic woes on external shocks. In fact, at the time, the Cedi was rated as the worst-performing currency in the world.”
“It is therefore unfathomable, how any reasonable person, after listening to this straight-forward interview, would nonetheless conclude that Dr. Prempeh was referring to His Excellency the Vice President. Indeed, in the said clip, Dr. Prempeh kept referring to “the President” so that cannot possibly be about Dr. Bawumia, who has never served as President of this republic.”
Kofi Abrefa Afena

Dr. Prempeh’s spokesperson in the statement issued on Tuesday, December 19, emphasized Dr. Opoku Prempeh’s unwavering confidence in Dr. Bawumia, declaring him the best choice for both Ghanaians and the NPP to secure a victory in the upcoming elections.

“Dr. Prempeh wishes to reiterate his absolute belief and confidence in the flagbearer of the NPP, His Excellency, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia as the most competent and credible candidate, with the proven incorruptibility, to beat the NDC flagbearer in 2024, based on the NPP’s superior record in government.”
“For the avoidance of doubt, the Energy Minister is of the firm view that, the people of Ghana on the balance of probabilities, will renew the NPP mandate with Dr Bawumia because, even in the face of genuine global shocks, as attested to by former President Mahama in his foreign engagements, the government has remained resolute, steering the country out of the woods.”
Kofi Abrefa Afena

NAPO’s Chances To Secure Running Mate

The speculation surrounding potential running mates for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has continued to spark interest, with Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh emerging as a noteworthy candidate. Dr. Prempeh, a seasoned politician and the current Member of Parliament for Manhyia South, has demonstrated his commitment to public service and garnered significant experience in various ministerial roles.

His tenure as the Minister of Education, where he played a pivotal role in implementing crucial reforms and initiatives, has undoubtedly bolstered his reputation as a capable leader. Dr. Prempeh’s stewardship in the education sector, marked by efforts to enhance access to quality education and address systemic challenges, has earned him recognition both within the party and among the general populace.

Beyond his accomplishments in education, Dr. Opoku Prempeh’s previous roles as the Minister of Energy and the Deputy Minister of Health showcase his versatility and extensive understanding of key sectors that impact the lives of Ghanaians. His pragmatic approach to problem-solving and ability to navigate complex policy issues positions him as a valuable asset to the NPP’s leadership.

While the decision on the party’s running mate ultimately rests with internal party processes and the presidential candidate, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh’s credentials make him a compelling choice. His experience, coupled with his track record of effective leadership, aligns with the party’s commitment to delivering development and progress to the Ghanaian people.

The NPP must carefully consider its options for the 2024 elections, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh’s name will likely feature prominently in discussions. However, the dynamics of party politics and the selection process will ultimately determine who assumes the role of the running mate.

Until then, Ghanaians keenly await the party’s decision, cognizant of the potential impact on the political landscape as the nation gears up for another electoral cycle.