A political aide to the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) 2024 Vice-presidential candidate, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, has cautioned the party’s newly elected flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, against changing his running mate ahead of the 2028 general elections.

Akwasi Nti, a former NPP Constituency Chairman for Fomena, issued the warning during a current affairs programme on Kumasi-based Angel FM, hosted by Kwame Adjei Bohyen.

He insisted that Dr. Bawumia should retain Dr. Opoku Prempeh, popularly known as NAPO, as his running mate and suggested there would be strong resistance from supporters if a different nominee is selected.

“Let Bawumia dare change NAPO and he will see,” Mr. Nti said during the programme. “We will never allow Bawumia to change NAPO.”

Kwasi Nti further argued that Dr. Bawumia had previously been given multiple opportunities as a running mate and should, in his view, maintain continuity.

The comments, captured in a video that has since circulated widely on traditional and social media platforms, have generated debate within party circles.

Mr. Nti was a known supporter of Kennedy Agyapong during the party’s recent primaries and served as his campaign coordinator in the Adansi enclave. His remarks have therefore raised questions among some party observers about internal dynamics within the NPP following the flagbearer election.

Dr. Bawumia, who was elected flagbearer two weeks ago, has not publicly announced his choice of running mate for the 2028 elections. Party sources say discussions about potential rebranding and strategic adjustments including the running mate position are ongoing.

While some party members have called for continuity, others have suggested the need for changes as the NPP prepares for the next electoral cycle.