A leading member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr Arthur Kennedy, has raised serious concerns about the suitability of Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh, popularly known as Napo, as a potential running mate to the party’s 2028 presidential flagbearer, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia.
Speaking on Joy FM’s AM Show, Dr Kennedy argued that Napo’s past public posture and controversial comments could alienate key voter blocs and weaken the party’s appeal ahead of the general election.
“I don’t think he was a good running mate,” Dr Kennedy stated, questioning whether Napo could broaden the party’s electoral reach. He specifically referenced the former minister’s past remarks about Ghana’s first President, Dr Kwame Nkrumah, describing them as “alienating” and politically damaging.
Dr Kennedy’s comments come in the wake of Dr Bawumia’s victory in the NPP presidential primaries on January 31, a development that has intensified internal discussions about campaign strategy, leadership choices, and the party’s public image.
While acknowledging Napo’s experience as a former Education and Energy Minister, Dr Kennedy maintained that political experience alone was not enough. According to him, the NPP must be cautious not to reinforce voter fatigue by recycling figures closely associated with a government that has faced sustained criticism over economic management and governance.
The remarks highlight growing unease within sections of the NPP over whether familiar faces from the party’s previous administrations can effectively lead a rebranding effort ahead of 2028.
