A member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in Ablekuma North constituency, Mr. Adu Gyamfi Okyere, has appealed to members of the party to desist from putting pressure on the flag bearer, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo to select his running mate from a particular region or religion. Mr. Okyere, the former Chairman of the constituency, said though it was good to suggest people to the flag bearer for consideration, it must not be based on geographical setting or religion. He told the GNA in an interview in Accra that in the choice of a running mate, what was important was the person’s ability to deliver, his or her commitment to the party, his or her integrity and competence, a person who is popular and has good academic background. “Since NPP is a national party it can select its flag bearer and the running mate from any part of the country and still have the blessing from members and supporters.” Mr. Okyere suggested to Nana Akufo-Addo and the leadership of the party to consider Mr. Ato Essuman, Member of council of State, for the position. He said Mr. Essuman, who is also the Chief Director of the Ministry of Education Science and Sport, is a founding member of the party and the first secretary of the Danquah/Busia club in Accra. He is a former national Lay President of the Methodist Church. Mr Okyere said Mr. Essuman made significant contributions to the building of the party in Ablekuma North and the nation as a whole. “At the time people did not want to be identified with the party, Mr. Essuman stood tall and defended the party,” he said. He said Mr. Essuman offered himself to contest the 1992 parliamentary elections on the ticket of the party at Ablekuma North when the party was finding it difficult to get a candidate. Source: GNA