In the midst of growing speculation and anticipation surrounding the New Patriotic Party's (NPP) selection of a running mate for Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia in the upcoming 2024 general elections, the First Deputy Speaker, Joseph Osei-Owusu, has asserted the importance of choosing a candidate from the Ashanti region.
This development comes as several prominent party members vie for the coveted position alongside intense competition.
Among the notable figures in consideration are Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, the Minister for Energy; Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, the Majority Leader; First Deputy Speaker Joseph Osei-Owusu himself; and Education Minister Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum.
In an exclusive interview with JoyNews' Evans Mensah, Mr. Osei-Owusu confirmed the prevailing consensus within the party that the running mate should hail from the Ashanti region, a sentiment echoed by many as the potential key to securing victory in 2024.
Mr. Osei-Owusu, who is also rumored to be a contender for the position, emphasized the necessity of a candidate with values such as integrity and wide-ranging respect within and outside the party.
Despite the names circulating in the public domain, he urged caution, stating that the pool of eligible candidates extends beyond the current frontrunners. “I think that we should allow the man the space to look at the whole game board and select,” he remarked.
When questioned about Vice President Bawumia's stance on the matter, Mr. Osei-Owusu indicated that there is a general agreement within the party regarding the region of selection.
However, he admitted uncertainty about whether Dr. Bawumia has officially consented to this agreement. “I think so,” he cautiously replied.
Addressing the significance of an Ashanti region candidate, Osei-Owusu articulated that such a choice would instill confidence among the people in the region, acknowledging their substantial contributions to the party's success.
This sentiment aligns with the broader strategy envisioned by party members to secure a decisive victory in the upcoming elections.
Meanwhile, Sammi Awuku, a member of the Bawumia campaign team, has dispelled rumors suggesting that the Vice President has already made a decision regarding his running mate for the 2024 polls.
Speaking on Joy FM's Top Story, Sammi Awuku emphasized Dr. Bawumia's analytical approach to decision-making, asserting that the Vice President is in no rush and will carefully consider various perspectives before making a final selection.
Sammi Awuku issued a disclaimer, clarifying that Dr. Bawumia has not discussed his choice with any inner or larger team members, emphasizing the Vice President's commitment to a thorough and consultative process.