Can Napo save the NPP?

Story: Kobby Dean, Political Editor

The NPP is banking its hopes on Matthew Opoku Prempeh, former Energy Minister and MP for Manhyia South to turn the tide in the upcoming elections in their favour.

There is obviously no denying the fact that the NPP is lagging behind in terms of popular support for this election; the economy has been quite woeful and many are feeling the pinch of an exchange rate that is spiraling out of control. Rising fuel prices have contributed to high cost of living with interest and inflation rates quite abysmal.

These are not great times for the NPP, and if the credible opinion polls are anything to go by, then it is obvious that it will take a miracle for the NPP to secure even a scrappy victory in the 2024 election. And clearly, the NPP is placing their bet on Napo to reverse the tide with Ashanti as their key focus.

More than ever, the Ashanti votes are crucial for the NPP but can they really trust the Ashantis to turn up for their boy, Napo. Sentiments in the Regions about the Party are not very impressive. Two by-elections in Kumawu and Ejisu have sounded alarm bells and hint of voter apathy that could severely harm their quest victory in the year’s elections.

The NPP had been very deliberative on the selection of Napo. The key consideration is what some believe is his charisma and magnetic appeal in the Ashanti Region. His links to the Ashanti Royal Family has been touted as one of his strong points and the endorsement of his character from the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II was vital in giving in some boost.

But many will say, his sometimes, abrasive style of communication may not resonate with a critical core of voters who usually decide elections.

Understandably, the NIB survey prior to his selection, projected him as the best for the running mate position in a survey of party members but there are no indications of the likeability of Napo among swing voters, who usually have no loyalty to any political party and decide elections in this country.

Still, one cannot be so sure about a survey that for intents and purposes was designed also to rally support for his choice as the running mate.

Again, the Ashanti factor has not been well interrogated. While a Running Mate position is admired, it is a dangerous over simplification of expected voter behavior and political effect of that choice to suggest that voters are going to consider that singular factor when there are other pressing issues that may be more critical them. The Ghanaian voter is becoming more sophisticated and may not necessarily be moved by the association of a running mate to a region. Good political strategists from political opponents can neutralize that effect.

The NPP has been swift to turn their focus on the first-time voters, and are making gains in that respect. Indeed, this election may require more than regional association to win. It will require very strategic thinking and effective implementation of well thought out political strategies.

There is no doubt that Napo’s selection invigorates the party’s base in the Ashanti Region, but it is still not a game changer. The NPP may require more strategic campaigning to convince Ghanaians that it remains the best option to lead the country.