Pressure on Bawumia to Name Running Mate Has no Basis —Hackman Owusu Agyeman

Hackman Owusu-Agyemang, a prominent figure within the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and Chairman of its council of elders has urged party members and supporters to refrain from pressuring Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia to prematurely announce his running mate for the upcoming elections.

In a recent interview on the Asaase Breakfast Show, Owusu-Agyemang emphasized that the decision on a running mate is a crucial one that should be made thoughtfully and without undue influence. He pointed out that the timing and selection processes are pivotal for ensuring the candidate’s suitability and the overall success of the party. “There is no basis for the pressure being mounted on Dr. Bawumia to select his running mate now. Such decisions require careful deliberation and consultation, and the vice president must be given the space to make an informed choice,” Owusu-Agyemang asserted.

Owusu-Agyemang further elaborated, stating, “We should not push him into making a decision now because the dynamics are changing every day. The choice of a running mate is not something that can be rushed. It requires a lot of thought and consideration of many factors.” This highlights the fluid nature of political campaigns and the importance of adapting to changing circumstances rather than adhering to arbitrary timelines.

Political analysts agree that the selection of a running mate is a strategic move that can significantly impact the electoral fortunes of a party. The running mate not only complements the presidential candidate but also appeals to a broader electorate, balancing regional, ethnic, and demographic considerations. Therefore, a premature selection driven by external pressures could undermine the strategic advantages that come with a well-considered choice.

Owusu-Agyemang’s admonition, “Let’s allow Dr. Bawumia the freedom to choose who he thinks will best serve the interests of the party and the country,” underlines the necessity of trusting Bawumia’s judgment and insight. This trust is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the decision-making process and ensuring that the selected candidate can effectively support the presidential bid.

External pressure could lead to adverse outcomes. It may, for instance, force the vice president into making a choice that fails to satisfy the necessary standards of merit and strategic value. Additionally, succumbing to pressure could create divisions within the party, as factions may feel their preferred candidates were overlooked due to the imposed urgency. Such a scenario can weaken party unity and diminish voter confidence.

Owusu-Agyemang’s cautionary words, “Imposing a candidate on Dr. Bawumia could be detrimental. It’s about winning an election, not satisfying individual ambitions,” reflect such potential dangers of prioritizing factional interests over collective goals. This sentiment underscores the importance of unity and strategic coherence within the party.

The call to cease the pressure on Dr. Bawumia highlights a critical issue within the NPP’s current political discourse. It is imperative for the party to trust in the vice president’s ability to make a well-informed and strategic choice. Allowing Bawumia the necessary space and time to deliberate on his running mate will not only strengthen the internal cohesion of the party but also enhance its prospects in the forthcoming elections. This approach underscores a mature and strategic stance that prioritizes long-term success over short-term pressures.