As the New Patriotic Party (NPP) loyalists and nation eagerly await the unveiling of the running mate to Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, flagbearer of the governing party for the 2024 general election, anticipation mounts as to who will be picked to the second gentle man of the land for the upcoming election.
The contenders for this pivotal role represent a diverse array of backgrounds, talents, and experiences, each poised to make a significant impact on the political landscape.
With the potential to shape policies, engage with constituents, and influence the direction of the country, these individuals are at the forefront of the national conversation.
A source close to Dr Bawumia’s camp has hinted at a list of top five contenders namely; Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, Irene Naa Torshie Addo, Mr Kwadwo Nsafoah Poku, Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum and Akosua Frema Osei-Opare.
The source also indicated a potential announcement of the ultimate choice in April 2024.
Profile of potential nominees
As the announcement draws near, the profiles of the potential nominees provide a glimpse into the calibre of leadership and dedication that each contender brings to the table.
Matthew Opoku Prempeh
Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, born in Kumasi, Ashanti Region, is a renowned medical doctor and politician. Serving as the Minister for Energy and Member of Parliament for Manhyia South Constituency in the Ashanti Region, he has left a significant mark on Ghanaian politics. Dr. Prempeh’s academic journey includes degrees from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology and postgraduate studies in epidemiology and leadership at prestigious international institutions like Erasmus University and Harvard University. Elected as MP in 2008, he later became Minister for Education, spearheading priority initiatives such as the Free Senior High School program to wide admiration even from his political opponents. His team also delivered on curriculum reforms, teacher reforms and several initiatives to promote and mainstream Technical, Vocational Training and Education (TVET), among others. He has been recognized with awards such as the Best Minister in 2017 and 2019 and received an Honorary Doctorate Degree for his contributions to education. Dr. Prempeh’s leadership and dedication continue to shape Ghana’s educational and energy sectors, reflecting his commitment to national development.
Irene Naa Torshie
Born in Osu, Accra, Hon. Irene Naa Torshie Addo is a distinguished lawyer and seasoned politician. Holding a master’s degree in law and development from the University of Warwick, specializing in Gender and Development Studies, she boasts a strong foundation in law and governance. She served as Deputy Ambassador to the Embassy of Ghana in Washington DC, USA, before assuming her current role as Member of Parliament for Tema West and subsequently the Administrator of the District Assembly Common Fund.
Naa Torshie is an Evangelist and lay preacher. She has planted several churches and championed the pilgrimage of over 2000 Christians to Israel since 2010
She is committed to promoting gender equality, human rights, Youth and economic development, leveraging her expertise in real estate, trade, and investment law. In 2022, she was recognized for her exemplary leadership by listeners of Adom FM and adjudged the best CEO. Hon. Irene Naa Torshie Addo envisions a future where Ghana continues to progress economically and socially, with a strong emphasis on empowering marginalized communities and promoting inclusive development. Her advocacy for gender equality and human rights reflects her commitment to building a more equitable and prosperous society for all Ghanaians.
Kwadwo Nsafoah Poku
Mr Kwadwo Nsafoah Poku is a seasoned entrepreneur and energy expert with over two decades of experience in Ghana’s energy sector. He has held leadership roles such as Country Director for GASOP OIL (GHANA) LIMITED and Board Director for companies, including Pan African Capital Ghana Limited and FIFC Management and Development Limited. Mr. Nsafoah Poku prioritizes youth skills development, aiming at empowering the younger generation for transformative change in Ghana. His focus includes tackling youth unemployment and promoting research, particularly in energy and herbal medicine. A committed member of the New Patriotic Party since 2016, he actively engages in party activities, especially in the Ayawaso West Wuogon Constituency.
Mr. Nsafoah Poku’s accomplishments include successful negotiations with the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation and key positions within GASOP OIL. He also served as Special Assistant to the Minister of Tourism, where he played a vital role in developing the Tourism Management Information System (TMIS) and designing the Ministry’s first website, showcasing Ghana’s tourist sites. His vision is centred on revitalising the economy and fostering inclusive growth, underpinned by a commitment to youth empowerment and economic reform.
Frema Osei-Opare
Akosua Frema Osei-Opare, a distinguished development practitioner, academic, and seasoned Ghanaian politician, boasts over 40 years of experience in these realms. As the first female Chief of Staff of Ghana and former Member of Parliament for the Ayawaso West Wuogon Constituency, she has left an indelible mark on the nation’s political landscape. Born in Wiamoase, a town in the Sekyere South district of the Ashanti Region, Frema pursued her education at St. Monica’s Secondary School and the University of Ghana, earning a bachelor’s degree in Home Science before obtaining a master’s degree in food science from the University of Guelph. Her career includes lecturing at the University of Ghana, serving as Deputy Minister for Manpower, Youth, and Employment, and collaborating with the United Nations on vital projects. Recognised for her contributions, she received an honorary Doctorate Degree in Science from Valley View University. A devoted Christian and mother of four, Frema balances her personal and professional life seamlessly. Her vision for Ghana encompasses effective leadership, inclusive policies, and sustainable development, particularly focusing on youth empowerment and social equity.
Yaw Osei Adutwum
Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, born in Jachie, Ashanti Region, is a distinguished Ghanaian politician and educator. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Land Economy/Business Administration from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology and pursued further studies, earning a master’s degree in education management from the University of La Verne, California, and a Ph.D. in Educational Policy, Planning, and Administration from the University of Southern California. As the founder of New Designs Charter Schools in Los Angeles, California, he revolutionized education, having served as a teacher at Manual Arts High School and founded the International Studies Academy. In March 2017, President Nana Akufo-Addo appointed Dr. Adutwum as Deputy Minister for Education, later recognized as the Best Performing Deputy Minister of the Year in 2019. Currently Ghana’s Minister of Education and the Member of Parliament for Bosomtwe Constituency in the Ashanti Region, he is actively involved in parliamentary committee and educational stakeholder engagements to optimise the education sector and reduce poverty. Dr. Adutwum envisions a Ghana where every child, irrespective of background, has equal access to quality education. He advocates for education reforms emphasizing STEM/STEAM education and 21st-century skills development, striving to transform Ghana’s socio-economic landscape as Minister of Education.
In the forthcoming announcement of Dr Mahamudu Bawumia’s vice-presidential nominee for the 2024 general elections, the anticipation reaches its zenith as the nation awaits the unveiling of the individual who will stand alongside Dr Bawumia in this pivotal role.
Dr Bawumia’s dilemma would be to adequately balance the complementary skills and experience, political compatibility, regional and demographic representation, campaigning and fundraising abilities, leadership qualities, electoral impacts, governance capabilities, and team compatibility among others, of the forerunners – Mr. Kwadwo Nsafoah Poku, Akosua Frema Osei-Opare, Hon. Irene Naa Torshie Addo, Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum, and Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh – each offering a distinct blend of expertise, experience, and vision. While NPP members seek individuals who have distinguished themselves and could contribute significantly to Dr Bawumia’s electoral appeal, Ghanaians are likely to prioritize a vice-presidential candidate committed to nation-building and strengthening the safety of citizens amid looming threats of terrorism and other regional insecurity concerns.
