President Akufo-Addo has stated that the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr Mahumudu Bawumia and the Member of Parliament (MP) for Manhyia South, Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh (NAPO) are friends who have joined forces to diligently serve Ghanaians.

Akufo-Addo described the duo as a perfect team committed to advancing the coutry's prosperity and well-being when given the nod December 7.

The president urged Ghanains to give Dr Bawumia and NAPO the necessary support to their efforts of breaking the eight governance cycle.

The president stated this during a ceremony held in Kumasi, Ashanti Region, to publicly announce NAPO as the party’s running mate.

“Just as you stuck with me nicely, so should you relate with them. These two are friends. They will have a good relationship with you just like I had with you.Thank you for the love and support you have given me all these years," he added.

In recent times, many have stated that the NPP's chances of seeking another term are low as compared to the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC).

To them, president Akufo-Addo’s poor performance and Bawumia's lack of expertise will impede their victory in the upcoming December polls .

On Friday, July 5, the NPP’s National Council formally endorsed NAPO as Dr. Bawumia’s running mate, a decision that has garnered praise from top party officials, including President Akufo-Addo, who expressed confidence in their leadership abilities ahead of the 2024 general elections.

Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh expressed gratitude to Dr. Bawumia for entrusting him with the role of running mate, pledging full commitment to ensuring victory for the party.

In response to criticisms of his perceived arrogance, the NPP has defended NAPO staunchly, with suggestions emerging that he should use prepared scripts to manage his public appearances effectively.