Deputy General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Mustapha Foyo Gbande, has criticized Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s selection of Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh (NAPO) as his running mate, suggesting that Minister of Education Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum would have been a better choice.
Speaking on Starr Today with Vanessa Tutuwaa Danso on StarrFM, Mr. Gbande emphasized Adutwum’s qualifications and suitability for the role, expressing surprise at the missed opportunity.
“Yesterday, the Minister of Education spoke, and I was a bit stunned because I have always respected his pedigree,” Gbande stated. “At least, I know that there is a better option if he was a running mate than the one we have, NAPO.”
Gbande praised Adutwum as “well-educated, well-articulated, well-polished,” arguing that these traits make him a more fitting figure for national leadership. In comparison, Gbande labeled NAPO as “a street talker” who “doesn’t talk wisdom,” adding, “NAPO isn’t well-educated.”
Addressing the symbolism of the vice-presidential position, Gbande questioned the message that NAPO’s selection could send to the public and the country’s youth. “Do you want NAPO to be in the Jubilee House so that you, Tutuwaa, would go and see him as your vice president? This is Ghana—a peaceful nation and a hub for diplomacy. We don’t need someone like NAPO in such a role.”
Gbande further expressed his belief that political leadership should serve as an inspiration to young Ghanaians. “Do you honestly believe you want your children to see NAPO’s picture and begin to jubilate that this is an example of who they want to be?” he asked.
Concluding his remarks, Gbande called for a more serious approach to political leadership, saying, “Let’s honor this country a little bit. Politics is not a hub for foolishness; it’s for serious thinkers and people who build.”
Source: Ghana/Starrfm.com.gh/103.5FM/Emmanuel Mensah