Dr. Mathew Opoku Prempeh, popularly referred to as Napo who was recently named the running mate for Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has sparked significant controversy with his recent remarks about Ghana’s first president, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah.
During his speech at his official unveiling as running mate in Kumasi on July 9, 2024, Dr. Prempeh asserted that Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo is by far Ghana’s best President. His comments have ignited a firestorm of reactions on social media and among the general public, particularly due to his dismissive reference to Ghana’s first President, Kwame Nkrumah, as “That Your Nkrumah.”
Many Ghanaians have expressed outrage over Dr. Prempeh’s statements, viewing them as not only factually inaccurate but also disrespectful. Social media platforms have been flooded with negative sentiments, with critics accusing Dr. Prempeh of arrogance and a lack of historical awareness. The backlash reflects a deep-seated respect for Nkrumah, who is widely regarded as a pivotal figure in Ghana’s history.
Dr. Prempeh’s speech, delivered at an event that underscored calls for unity within the NPP, was meant to galvanize support for the upcoming 2024 elections. However, the speech has instead shifted focus towards his controversial remarks. Supporters of John Dramani Mahama, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate, have seized the opportunity to criticize Dr. Prempeh. Joyce Bawah Mogtari, an aide to Mahama described the speech as lacking wisdom, decorum, and leadership. She argued that Dr. Prempeh missed a crucial chance to present himself and the NPP’s vision positively to the Ghanaian electorate.
Joyce Bawah Mogtari further contended that instead of promoting the NPP’s agenda, Dr. Prempeh chose to push an anti-Kwame Nkrumah narrative, which many view as divisive and counterproductive. The remarks have overshadowed the intended message of unity and progress that the NPP hoped to convey at the ceremony.
As the political landscape heats up ahead of the 2024 elections, these comments and the reactions they have elicited highlight the ongoing complexities and sensitivities surrounding Ghana’s political history and leadership. The NPP will need to navigate these controversies carefully as they continue their campaign, ensuring that their messaging resonates positively with the broader electorate.
Source: GhanaFeed.Com