Andy Appiah-Kubi, a member of the National Council of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) and MP for Asante Akim North, has voiced his disapproval of the running mate candidate chosen by the party’s flagbearer, Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.
Appiah-Kubi believes that the Energy Minister, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, is not the appropriate choice to partner with Dr. Bawumia in the 2024 general elections.
This response follows Dr. Bawumia’s presentation of Dr. Opoku Prempeh’s name as his running mate to President Akufo-Addo on June 25.
Elton Brobbey, JoyNews’ Presidential Affairs correspondent, reported that a meeting occurred that night at the Jubilee House where the Vice President proposed his choice.
Although President Akufo-Addo offered advice and shared his thoughts, he ultimately accepted Dr. Bawumia's decision.
Appiah-Kubi, however, disagrees with this choice.
He contends that Mr. Opoku Prempeh is not widely acceptable within the NPP, particularly among MPs, and he doubts the Energy Minister’s ability to campaign effectively in many constituencies.
“I wouldn’t speak for the majority since we haven’t been consulted as a caucus,” Appiah-Kubi stated.
“But personally, if it were up to me, I wouldn’t choose him. He is not my preference.
That doesn’t mean he is not qualified, but he is not my choice.”
When asked about his own preference, Appiah-Kubi suggested that he would prefer a candidate who is open with the grassroots, capable of securing votes, submissive to the presidency, and instrumental in bridging the gap between Parliament and the executive.
He emphasized the need for a running mate who can campaign alongside MPs in their constituencies, something he feels Dr. Opoku Prempeh cannot effectively do.
“I don’t see that happening with this choice. He cannot support me in my constituency, so why would I prefer him?” Appiah-Kubi concluded.