Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, popularly known as Napo, has declared that he has no intention of contesting for the presidency in the 2028 general elections, putting to rest widespread speculation about his political ambitions.
Speaking to journalists on the sidelines of a key New Patriotic Party (NPP) engagement in Accra, the 2024 running mate to former Vice President and flagbearer Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, stated emphatically, “Me personally, I am not running in 2028.”
His comments came just hours before the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting at the Alisa Hotel in Ridge, where senior party officials, including former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and Dr. Bawumia, gathered to deliberate on the party’s future following its loss in the 2024 general elections.
Dr. Opoku Prempeh, who previously served as Minister for Education and later as Energy Minister under the Akufo-Addo administration, said his focus is not on personal ambition but on ensuring unity and cohesion within the NPP as it navigates its path in opposition.
“What matters now is the unity of the party. That is my commitment and what I’m working towards,” he told reporters.
The NEC meeting is expected to tackle post-election reforms, assess the reasons behind the party’s electoral defeat, and set a strategic direction ahead of the 2028 election cycle. The gathering is also being closely watched for early signs of potential contenders for the NPP’s future leadership.
Dr. Opoku Prempeh’s decision not to contest may come as a surprise to some within the party, given his visibility during the 2024 campaign and his longstanding service within the NPP. However, his announcement may also serve to cool internal tensions and signal a focus on rebuilding and restructuring.