Veteran New Patriotic Party (NPP) stalwart and physician, Dr Arthur Kennedy, has expressed strong concerns about growing speculation that Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh — popularly called Napo — could be selected as running mate to flagbearer Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, cautioning that such a decision may hurt the party’s electoral chances.

Contributing to discussions on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show, Dr Kennedy questioned whether the former Energy and Education Minister would be the most strategic partner for Dr Bawumia, particularly given aspects of his past public conduct that, in his view, unsettled sections of the Ghanaian electorate.

He recalled earlier controversies linked to Napo’s comments on historical and political matters, arguing that they created unnecessary backlash and could resurface to undermine the party’s campaign messaging in 2028.

The comments come in the wake of Dr Bawumia’s victory in the NPP’s January 31 presidential primary, which has sparked early internal deliberations on how best to position the party for the next general election — including the critical choice of a vice-presidential candidate.

While acknowledging Napo’s experience and dynamism, Dr Kennedy maintained that the party must be deliberate about projecting renewal and inclusiveness after years in government.

He suggested that leaning once again on prominent figures closely associated with the previous administration risks reinforcing public perceptions of political continuity rather than change.

According to him, the NPP stands a better chance of rebuilding momentum by introducing new personalities and ideas that resonate with a broader spectrum of voters.

Dr Kennedy therefore urged party leadership and the flagbearer to carefully weigh their options, stressing that the right running mate could play a decisive role in restoring confidence and strengthening the party’s appeal ahead of the 2028 polls.