Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, popularly known as NAPO, has condemned the tribal tone creeping into discussions about the New Patriotic Party\u2019s (NPP) defeat in the recent general election.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In an interview with Channel One TV, the 2024 NPP Vice Presidential Candidate strongly rejected claims that his perceived underperformance in securing votes from the Ashanti Region was a key factor in the party\u2019s loss.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cDid Dr. Bawumia, a Northerner, deliver all the votes from the North?\u201d NAPO fired back when asked about Ashanti votes, describing the question as inflammatory and misguided.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He emphasized that the party\u2019s defeat should not be blamed on any single region or individual, noting that low voter turnout across the country played a significant role.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cDon\u2019t ask such a question again because it could lead to unnecessary provocation. When I hear such comments, it pushes me to respond harshly. The fact is, the party lost, and millions of Ghanaians didn\u2019t vote. Are all those lost votes solely from Ashanti?\u201d he asked.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
NAPO highlighted that the Ashanti Region, traditionally an NPP stronghold, recorded a voter turnout of 65%, one of the highest in the country. He urged party members and critics alike to avoid tribal framing, which he warned could deepen divisions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cBringing tribal elements into this conversation is dangerous and unproductive. The shifts in votes happened across regions, including Volta and Greater Accra. This is not about ethnicity\u2014it\u2019s about collective responsibility as a party,\u201d he explained.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
NAPO also dismissed claims that his selection as the running mate was based on his Ashanti roots, asserting that competence, not tribal affiliation, was the reason he was chosen for the role.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He concluded by urging party members to focus on unity and rebuilding, instead of engaging in finger-pointing or blame games. \u201cNow is the time for us to come together as a party and learn from this experience to ensure a better outcome in the future,\u201d he stated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
SOURCE:<\/strong> http:\/\/dew360.net<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n