Calls for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, to choose his running mate from the Ashanti Region have intensified, following the massive response to his three-day tour of the region.

Some traders of the Kejetia Market are particularly pushing for the Chief of Staff, Akosua Frema Osei-Opare as running mate for the 2024 presidential election.

Interacting with the media, the traders said her performance as Chief of Staff is indicative of her qualities.

In 2020, the Ashanti Region gave the New Patriotic Party over 1.7 million votes, a major boost for the party's victory in the general election.

With intensified campaigning for the 2024 election, the NPP is envisaging an increase in the party's fortunes as part of efforts to "Break the Eight."

Some traders at the Kejetia Market in Kumasi say breaking the eight is partly dependent on the choice of running mate.

The leader of the group, Kwame Yeboah, told the media that the Chief of Staff, Akosua Frema Osei-Opare is the best fit to improve the party's fortunes.

“In times of trouble, she comes to our rescue. She has been there for the market women. Race Course is an example. She has shown much interest in gender issues. We are pleading with the NPP leadership to choose the Chief of Staff as the running mate.”

The traders are pleading with the NPP to endorse their choice, touting the Chief of Staff's performance in her present office.

“The woman has genuinely shown love to traders. Women can't be left out of politics. For that reason, we plead with you to appoint Akosua Frema Osei-Opare as the running mate.”