In the wake of Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s resounding victory in the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer election over the weekend, several names have popped up as potential running mate to partner him for the 2024 general elections.
The names for the running mate are from the Ashanti Region, however, the newly elected flagbearer and leader of the party is yet to comment on his choice of running mate.
Among the prominent figures whose names have emerged are Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, a seasoned politician and current Majority Leader in Parliament and Minister for Government Business; Akosua Frema Osei-Opare, current Chief of Staff at the Presidency; Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, MP for Manhyia South and Minister of Energy; Joseph Osei Owusu, MP for Bekwai and First Deputy Speaker of Parliament; Apostle Opoku Onyinah, the immediate past chairman of the Church of Pentecost; Isaac Osei, former MP for Subin and Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, MP for Bosomtwe and Minister of Education.
Known for his strong leadership skills and experience in governance, Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, a long-standing MP for Suame, has been an influential figure within the New Patriotic Party for many years.
Dr. Adutwum’s dedication to improving the country’s education system and his extensive background in academia make him a strong contender for the role. But, his contenders believe he has not learned the rope having joined the party not long ago.
Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, also known as Napo, is another prominent name that has been mentioned.
In fact, some analysts believe that it’s a done deal for him having succeeded in influencing Ashanti regional chairmen as well as the inner circle for the flagbearer.
Joseph Osei Owusu’s legal background and experience in legislative affairs make him a viable candidate to complement Bawumia’s leadership.
The religious community is also represented among the potential candidates, with Apostle Opoku Onyinah’s name being mentioned.
As a prominent religious leader, Apostle Onyinah’s inclusion on the ticket would bring a strong moral compass and spiritual guidance to the ruling party’s campaign.
Those pushing for Apostle Onyinah cited Buhari and Osinbajo ticket in Nigeria which won the election for the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the Nigerian election in 2015.
Isaac Osei, former Managing Director of the Tema Oil Refinery (TOR) and current Board Chairman of Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA), is another notable figure in the running mate race.
His experience in politics and his contributions to the oil and gas industry have earned him recognition and respect.
He is the face of the Catholic Church.
Akosua Frema Osei-Opare, the current Chief of Staff to the President, is also among the potential running mates. Madam Osei-Opare’s extensive experience in public administration and her close working relationship with President Akufo-Addo makes her a strong contender for the position.
As the campaign unfolds, Ghanaians eagerly await the announcement of Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s running mate, which will undoubtedly shape the political landscape in the months to come.
By Vincent Kubi