The selection of Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, popularly known as Napo, as the running mate of Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia had a detrimental effect on the New Patriotic Party’s fortunes in the 2024 general elections.

This is the conclusion of a study conducted by the Department of History and Political Science Department of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology.

The key findings;

The study revealed that 85.45% of respondents are aware of Dr. Prempeh's candidacy.

However, opinions on his influence are divided, with 47.29% believing he negatively impacts the campaign and 32.24% viewing him positively. Satisfaction with Dr. Prempeh's performance is largely negative, with 36.31% very unsatisfied.

In contrast, Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum is preferred by 53.14% of respondents as the ideal running mate and is seen as having the most positive impact by 58.56%.

The research on the prospects of the 2024 election, conducted by the Department of History and Political Science at the KNUST, was based on public perception and preference of the NPP’s Vice Presidential candidate, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh.

Lead researcher, Professor Samuel Adu-Gyamfi, sheds light on the findings. 

“The data reveals mixed perception and a notable 47.29% of respondents, who believes that Dr. Prempeh negatively impacted the campaign,” he said.

Prof. Adu Gyamfi made some recommendations for Dr. Opoku Prempeh’s candidacy going forward.

“The running mate in any political party should potentially, if not galvanize support, serve as an icing on the cake of the campaign” he warned.

Dr. Amakye Boateng, a Political Scientist at the KNUST, also cited public dissatisfaction towards the NPP’s running mate.

The conclusion of the findings indicates that while Dr. Prempeh is widely recognised, his candidacy faces significant challenges due to dissatisfaction and mixed perceptions of his impact.

Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum is perceived as a more favourable choice, suggesting that his proven track record and public appeal could offer strategic advantages for the NPP.

To enhance campaign effectiveness, addressing public dissatisfaction and aligning candidate selection with voter expectations will be crucial for the NPP's success going forward.