Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, Vice Presidential Candidate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has clarified and apologized for remarks made during his unveiling in Kumasi on July 9, 2024.
The comments, which were intended to highlight the achievements of President Akufo-Addo, have sparked significant controversy and elicited varied reactions from the public and political commentators.
Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, also known as Napo, in a statement addressed the matter directly, emphasizing that his intention was never to denigrate the legacy of former President Dr. Kwame Nkrumah or any other former heads of state.
“The statement reflects my personal opinion about President Akufo-Addo’s impact relative to other Presidents we have had. I wish to emphasize that I never meant to disrespect our former President, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, or any of our former heads of state, including my own grand uncle and mentor, Mr. John Agyekum Kufuor”.
Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, Vice Presidential Candidate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP)
In response to the concerns raised, the Manhyia South Member of Parliament, Dr Mattthew Opoku Prempeh expressed sincere regret and offered an apology for any discomfort his remarks may have caused.
“I note the concerns raised after my statement. I apologize sincerely and regret any discomfort caused,” he said.
Dr. Opoku Prempeh’s statement sought to mend the rift caused by his earlier comments and reaffirm his respect for Ghana’s historical leaders.
The contentious remarks were made during a speech in Kumasi, where Dr. Opoku Prempeh extolled the accomplishments of President Akufo-Addo, drawing comparisons to the achievements of previous administrations.
His comments were met with backlash from supporters and admirers of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, Ghana’s first President, who is revered for his role in gaining the country’s independence and for his contributions to Pan-Africanism.
Resignation of Hon. Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh as Minister for Energy
In a significant development, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has officially accepted the resignation of Honorable Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh from his position as the Minister for Energy.
Eugene Arhin, Director of Communications, Office of the President, in a statement, pointed out that the resignation will take effect from 18th July 2024.
President Akufo-Addo, in a statement released by Eugene Arhin, Director of Communications at the Office of the President, expressed his profound gratitude to Dr. Opoku Prempeh for his unwavering dedication and exemplary service to the government and the people of Ghana.
The President also acknowledged Dr. Opoku Prempeh’s remarkable achievements and significant contributions during his tenure as both the Minister for Education and the Minister for Energy.
“This decision has been made to enable Dr. Opoku Prempeh to focus on his new role as the Vice-Presidential Candidate and Running Mate to the 2024 Presidential Candidate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia”.
Eugene Arhin, Director of Communications, Office of the President
In response to this transition, Eugene Arhin, Director of Communications, Office of the President further indicated that President Akufo-Addo has appointed Hon. Abu Jinapor, the current Minister for Lands and Natural Resources and Member of Parliament for Damongo, to assume Cabinet oversight responsibility over the Ministry of Energy.
Additionally, the Director of Communications, Office of the President indicated that Herbert Krapa, the Minister-of-State-designate at the Ministry of Energy, will handle the day-to-day administration of the Ministry.
He emphasized that President Akufo-Addo has instructed both officials to work closely with Dr. Opoku Prempeh to ensure a seamless transition and continuity in the Ministry’s operations.
Eugene Arhin, Director of Communications, Office of the President, in conclusion, extended President Akufo-Addo’s best wishes and God’s blessings to Dr. Opoku Prempeh in his new role, expressing confidence that he will continue to serve the party and the nation with distinction.
Eugene Arhin also reiterated President Akufo-Addo’s appreciation for Dr. Opoku Prempeh’s service and expressed optimism about his future contributions to the nation’s development.
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