I wonder how NPP will use 6 months to persuade Ghanaians from the negative perceptions about NAPO — Political scientist

Senior Political Science Lecturer at the University of Ghana, Prof. Alidu Seidu, has expressed concerns over the New Patriotic Party's (NPP) ability to effectively market its 2024 running mate, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh to floating voters in the lead-up to the December 7 polls.

Prof. Seidu, who heads the Department of Political Science, highlighted the challenges the NPP faces in garnering support from non-committed voters.

He pointed out that the arrogance tag about the Manhyia South lawmaker could negatively impact the party's electoral chances, as many Ghanaians still recall his controversial comments during the power crisis.

In an interview with Joynews' Raymond Acquah, Prof. Seidu emphasized the difficulty task ahead for the NPP given the short time frame.

"We have just six months until elections. Yes, you can convince the NPP supporters that ‘this is not how Napo is. Few people have worked with Napo and they know that these are perceptions and that Napo is not like that,’" he stated.

"But for those outside the NPP or even within the party who haven’t interacted closely with him, how long will it take them to change their perception?" he questioned.

Prof. Seidu further noted, "A lot of people refer to the recent 'dumsor' issue which angered many Ghanaians. 'Dumsor' affected their work, businesses, and personal lives."

However, NPP National Organiser, Lawyer Henry Nana Boakye, dismissed assertions that Dr. Opoku Prempeh, commonly known as Napo, is rude and arrogant.

Speaking on Peace FM’s Midday News, Nana B argued that Napo's perceived arrogance are actually qualities of his confidence, boldness, and competence.

"I have worked closely with him, so for me, I see a lot of confidence in him. I see somebody who is committed and dedicated to his work, I see that he has the energy to always turn things around," Nana B said.

He added, "As for me, I have said that Napo’s confidence, assertiveness, and competence make people think he is arrogant. His work ethic is top-notch, making him the most effective Education Minister since independence. His ability to roll out the free SHS programme is part of the qualities that make him outstanding."

Nana B concluded by emphasizing the NPP's commitment to promoting their ticket to Ghanaians.

"As a political party, the ticket must be sold to Ghanaians and that is what we are going to do," he emphasized.