A prominent figure within the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Odeneho Kwaku Appiah, has once again emphasised the urgency for the party's flagbearer to announce his running mate ahead of the 2024 general elections. 

Mr Appiah believes the prolonged delay not only fosters internal discord within the party but also induces anxiety among members.

In his assertion, Mr Appiah urged the flagbearer to disregard concerns about public opinion and follow the precedent set by Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, who promptly disclosed his running mate and stood by his decision.

He emphasised the paramount importance of selecting a running mate capable of bolstering the party's electoral prospects through increased popular support.

"The primary criterion for the selection should be someone with widespread popularity and a track record of positively impacting lives, as this will translate into more votes for the party," he remarked, underlining the essence of numerical strength in a democracy.

Expressing a regional preference, Mr Appiah identified a specific candidate from the Ashanti Region who, according to him, commands significant support and could substantially contribute to the NPP's electoral success in 2024.

"When gauging public sentiment through various channels such as social media, marketplaces, churches, and even funeral gatherings, it becomes evident that an overwhelming majority in the Ashanti Region are rallying behind one particular individual," he asserted.

Mr Appiah further supported his claim by referencing the internal party dynamics, citing research data that purportedly indicated widespread acceptance of the favoured candidate among regional and constituency leaders.

"In an analysis of key party stakeholders including regional ministers, MPs, regional chairmen, and constituency chairmen, the overwhelming consensus favours the popular candidate. Only a negligible minority expressed discomfort with the choice," he disclosed in a social media post.

Mr Appiah's remarks underscore the growing impatience within the NPP ranks regarding the delayed announcement of the party's running mate, highlighting the need for swift action to unify party members and galvanise support ahead of the forthcoming elections