NPP risks voter alienation if Bawumia picks NAPO – Arthur Kennedy

Dr Arthur Kennedy, a senior member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has raised concerns that selecting Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh, popularly known as Napo, as running mate to Dr Mahamudu Bawumia could undermine the party’s appeal and risk alienating voters ahead of the 2028 general election.

Speaking on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show, which was followed keenly by today.com.gh, Dr Kennedy questioned Napo’s suitability for the deputy position, citing his past public statements that could divide opinion among the electorate. “I don’t think he was a good running mate,” Dr Kennedy said. “Of course, you can always say maybe this time around he will be better. But the last time, his Kwame Nkrumah comments and all those kinds of things were alienating.”

Dr Kennedy, a physician and long-time NPP activist, made the remarks amid ongoing party discussions on strategy, leadership, and image following Dr Bawumia’s victory in the party’s January 31 presidential primaries. The flagbearer secured the NPP nomination for the 2028 general election, sparking early debates over who should join him on the ticket.

While acknowledging Napo’s political experience and personality, Dr Kennedy urged careful consideration of other potential candidates who might strengthen the party’s appeal. “I like Napo. He’s a very interesting person,” he said. “But if I were Dr Bawumia, I would seriously consider whether other people would help me better.”

He further warned that pairing with someone closely associated with the previous government could reinforce perceptions of continuity, which may not resonate with voters seeking fresh ideas. “Having said that, which is part of why I think Dr Bawumia himself has a problem, he doubles down on it when he picks somebody who is also a very familiar face of the last government,” he added.

Dr Kennedy stressed that the NPP needs new faces and innovative ideas to reconnect with the electorate, especially after two consecutive terms in government and amid public criticisms over economic and governance challenges. Analysts suggest that the choice of running mate will be a critical decision, potentially influencing the party’s image and chances at the 2028 polls.

His comments underline the broader challenges political parties face when selecting candidates who can unify supporters while attracting undecided voters.