Dr. Kwame Asah-Asante, a Political Science Lecturer at the University of Ghana, has expressed surprise and disagreement with the push to change Professor Jane
Naana Opoku-Agyemang as the running mate for the National Democratic Congress
(NDC) flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama. There have been reports suggesting that other individuals, including business mogul Sam Jonah, former
Deputy Chief of Staff Dr. Valerie Sawyerr, founder of Ashesi University Patrick Awuah, and former Chief of Staff Julius Debrah, might be considered as potential replacements for Professor Opoku-Agyemang.
However, Dr. Asah-Asante emphasized that while the other mentioned individuals are credible and qualified, Professor Opoku-Agyemang is a
strong candidate who has the necessary experience and qualities to partner effectively with Mr. Mahama. He expressed disbelief that some people would want her removed from the running mate position, citing her extensive experience and capabilities.
He also challenged the notion that she couldn’t match up with then-running mate Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia on economic issues.
In response to these speculations, former Chief of Staff Julius Debrah released a statement on August 9, dissociating himself from the running mate discussions.
The NDC party clarified that the final decision on the running mate would be made by the flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, in consultation with the National Executive Committee and the Council of Elders.