Bawumia Yet to Decide on Running Mate as Party Considers Strategic Factors – Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu
Senior statesman and former Majority leader of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Osei Kyei‑Mensah‑Bonsu, has indicated that the party’s flagbearer, Mahamudu Bawumia, has not yet made a final decision on who will serve as his running mate.
In an exclusive interview with Kojo Preko Dankwa on Kessben Maakye, Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu noted that the choice of a running mate will be carefully considered to ensure the individual aligns with Dr. Bawumia’s vision and leadership style.
According to him, several factors could influence the decision, including professional background, governance experience, and personal chemistry with the NPP flagbearer.
“In the view of some people, Dr. Bawumia is already an economist, so he may not necessarily need another economist as his running mate,” he suggested.
“He could consider someone with a different professional background who complements his strengths.”
Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu also explained that the selection may prioritize a candidate with strong governance experience and someone capable of effectively supporting the administration if elected.
He further indicated that religious considerations may determine the final choice, noting that the running mate could either be Muslim or from another religious background.
The former Majority Leader added that personal compatibility between the presidential candidate and the eventual running mate would be a crucial factor in the decision-making process.
He also hinted that the party may take its time before announcing the candidate, stressing that the choice is unlikely to be made immediately.
Quoting Ghana’s first President, Kwame Nkrumah, he said: “Seek ye first the political kingdom and the rest shall be added unto it.”
Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu suggested that Dr. Bawumia may prefer to wait until other party executive positions are fully settled before making the announcement.
The decision on a running mate is expected to be a key strategic step for the NPP as it prepares for the upcoming general elections.
Story: Maurice Otoo
