The King of the Ashanti Kingdom, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has advised Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, the selected running mate for the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, not to let the latter down.
With a deep understanding of Dr. Prempeh’s journey and their shared history, the occupant of the Golden Stool urged the Minister of Energy, who he called his son and grandson after ascending to the stool, to prove himself worthy of the trust placed in him.
“I have spoken to Napo, my son, behind closed doors and counselled him well. But let me tell you [Napo] in public that don’t let Dr. Bawumia regret his decision in choosing you,” Otumfuo counselled.
He added, “Go and serve him [Dr.Bawumia] with humility, loyalty and dedication. Listen to his directives and obey him at all times. What I have told you behind closed doors is what I am repeating to you in public. Be humble and serve Dr. Bawumia well”.
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II made this observation in his acceptance speech when President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, Dr. Bawumia and officials of the NPP officially introduced Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, popularly known as Napo, to him at a durbar of chiefs at the Manhyia Palace on Tuesday, July 9, 2024.
Otumfuo’s words carried the weight of experience and wisdom, drawn from his relationship with Napo, whom he had supported and guided throughout his academic and political journey.
The King’s advice was to remind Dr. Prempeh about his roots and the importance of honour, discipline and service.
The Otumfuo, commenting further, entrusted Napo in the care of Dr. Bawumia and urged the duo to work together diligently.
“As you work together, whenever there is some disagreement, don’t hesitate to inform me so I can scold him behind closed doors,” he told Dr. Bawumia.
The King expressed his gratitude to the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the NPP for supporting Napo in his political journey.
He used the occasion to counsel political actors in the country to be decorous in their campaign and assist the electorate to make informed decisions on the kind of policies and programs they intend to introduce when elected into office.
President Akufo-Addo, in introducing Dr. Prempeh to Otumfuo, as running mate to Dr. Bawumia, recounted how the Manhyia South lawmaker has contributed meaningfully to his government.
He was very confident that the pair, Dr. Bawumia and Napo, would not disappoint Ghanaians when given the chance to serve them.
“He [Napo] has served me with humility and all his might. I strongly believe that with the task he has been entrusted with, he will execute it diligently.
“I know his strength and what he brings onboard. I am confident that he, together with Dr. Bawumia, will uplift Ghana to greater heights,” he said.
He told the occupant of the Golden Stool that he was very proud of the achievements of his grandson, highlighting the role he has also played in Napo’s political journey.
“I can confidently tell you Otumfuo, that I have contributed a lot to the political life of your grandson. When we came to power first, I entrusted him with executing the Free SHS policy. I knew why I did that and he never disappointed me.
“He executed the policy to the admiration of all. Today, free SHS is being hailed everywhere. I also know that what Bawumia has assigned him to do, he will do it diligently,” he added.
By Stephen Odoi-Larbi
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