The Vice Presidential candidate for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, popularly known as NAPO, has stirred controversy with remarks directed at the National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer, former President John Dramani Mahama. NAPO mocked Mahama for choosing what he termed as an "old lady" as his running mate, drawing a stark contrast between the NPP's and the NDC's approach to selecting Vice Presidential candidates.
During a recent campaign event, NAPO took the opportunity to highlight the differences between the NPP and the NDC in terms of leadership grooming. According to him, the NPP has a tradition of selecting Vice Presidents with the potential to ascend to the highest office in the future. He pointed to the example of President Nana Akufo-Addo, who chose Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, a young and dynamic individual, as his Vice President. This, he argued, was done with the intention of grooming Bawumia for future leadership roles.
Continuing his argument, NAPO noted that Dr. Bawumia, in turn, selected him as his running mate, which he suggested was in line with the NPP's tradition of fostering leadership development within the party. The implication of his remarks was clear: the NPP prioritizes youthful vigor and potential in its leadership choices.
In a pointed contrast, NAPO criticized Mahama for not following this supposed leadership development strategy. He accused the former President of selecting an "old lady" as his running mate, implying that this choice was not made with future leadership in mind. Though he did not mention the NDC Vice Presidential candidate, Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, by name, his remarks were widely interpreted as a reference to her.
NAPO’s comments have sparked a fresh round of controversy, with many criticizing him for what they perceive as an ageist and sexist attack. His remarks have also raised questions about the tone and nature of political discourse in the country, particularly regarding respect for women and older individuals in leadership.
As the campaign season heats up, it remains to be seen how these comments will impact the political landscape and whether they will have any lasting effects on the fortunes of either party in the upcoming elections.
