Don't pressure Dr Bawumia over running mate choice – Ashanti NPP to members

The Ashanti Regional branch of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has urged party members and the public not to mount pressure on the party's flagbearer, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, over the appointment of a running mate.

According to a statement available to GhanaWeb on September 16, 2026, the Ashanti Regional Youth Organiser of the NPP, Martin Ameyaw, said the choice of a running mate is a crucial decision that could significantly influence Bawumia's bid for the presidency.

“The appointment of a Running Mate is a decision that could significantly influence Dr Mahamudu Bawumia's journey toward becoming President of the Republic of Ghana. Therefore, serious care and careful consideration must be taken in making this important decision,” he said.

The statement follows media reports that some elements in the party are pressuring Dr Mahamudu Bawumia to officially announce Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh as his running mate for the 2028 elections.

Ameyaw noted that several party stalwarts in the Ashanti Region are qualified for the position but stressed that Bawumia should be given the space to select someone who embodies loyalty, humility, strong communication skills and liberal political values.

“In the Ashanti Region, many party stalwarts are qualified to take up the position of Running Mate. There is, therefore, a need for the Presidential Candidate to carefully consider all options and choose someone who is loyal, a good communicator, humble, and a LIBERAL politician,” he said.

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He added that Bawumia could also opt for a non-political figure, provided the person is diligent, kind, honest and committed to national service.

“Dr Bawumia may also decide to choose a non-political person—someone who is diligent, kind, honest, and committed to the service of the nation,” Ameyaw said.

He cautioned that Dr Bawumia should decide the timing of the announcement, insisting that no amount of pressure should influence him to make the wrong choice.

“I therefore urge the Presidential Candidate to take his time in making this important decision and in determining the appropriate time to unveil his Running Mate.

“This is a crucial decision, and ultimately, he has the right to choose the person he believes is best suited for the role. NO AMOUNT OF PRESSURE SHOULD MAKE HIM CHOOSE WRONGLY.”

Ameyaw assured Dr Bawumia of the Ashanti Region's support as he makes the decision.

VKB/MA

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