A former General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Nana Ohene-Ntow says the idea of pairing Alan Kyeremateng and Dr Mahamudu Bawumia for the 2024 presidential race is an unrealistic proposal.

“That is not a realistic proposal. That is not a proposal to be considered,” he said.

Explaining his reason, the former General Secretary cited the party’s constitution, saying that an elected candidate has the constitutional right and privilege to select a running mate after which comes endorsement by the party’s council.

Using President Akufo-Addo as an example, Mr Ohene Ntow explained that the president during the time he was elected, proposed a few names who could be his running mate but were rejected by members of the council. Subsequently, the council itself proposed a few names that were rejected by President Akufo-Addo.

According to him, the president then selected Dr Bawumia who was not a member of the party.

He is of the view that running mates should not be forced on presidential candidates and that democratic principles must rule. He explained that forcing a running mate on a presidential candidate would set a “dangerous precedent.”

Mr Ohene-Ntow argued that “people seem to want a certain arrangement by all means” especially between Mr Alan Kyeremateng and Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, however, he would reject that feeling outright.

Meanwhile, the former General Secretary who already has thrown his weight behind Mr. Alan John Kyeremateng in the flagbearership race, has said that Vice President, Dr. Bawumia should step down for a while.

According to him, Dr. Bawumia is younger and as a result, has more time ahead of him. He suggests that criticisms regarding the economic challenges facing the country now have been directed at Dr. Bawumia more than President Akufo-Addo. Consequently, he needs some time off to revitalise himself and come back into the race another time.