Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has reaffirmed the neutrality of the Manhyia Palace following the selection of Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, a royal family member, as the Vice Presidential Candidate for the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the 2024 presidential election.
During a courtesy visit by the Vice Presidential Candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, to the Manhyia Palace on Friday, September 27, 2024, Otumfuo emphasized that the Palace remains open to all political parties and does not favor any particular faction.
“The NPP has chosen my grandson, Napo, as their Vice Presidential Candidate. That does not mean Manhyia belongs to the NPP. You, too, have access to me just as they do,” Otumfuo stated.
Otumfuo took the opportunity to express concern over the NDC’s prolonged absence from the Palace, particularly after they went into opposition, and the delay in introducing their candidate, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang.
“I wondered if the NDC had an issue with me after they lost power. They stopped visiting. I heard Naana had been nominated as the running mate, but she wasn’t introduced to me. The NPP introduced Napo, but the NDC hadn’t brought Naana here. The last time John Mahama visited, I asked him about it, and I even brought it up when I met Naana in Cape Coast,” he remarked.
Despite the delayed introduction, Otumfuo praised Prof. Opoku-Agyemang’s humility and intellect, offering his blessings and encouragement for her political journey.
“I admire her humility and wisdom. I advise her to maintain that humility, and my blessings are with her,” Otumfuo said.
Otumfuo reiterated that the ultimate priority for Ghanaians is development, not political affiliations. He urged all parties to focus on policies that will promote national growth and improvement in people’s lives.
“What matters most to Ghanaians is not which party wins but who can bring about real development. Share your policies with the public and convince them how you plan to improve the country. While your party supporters believe in you, there are floating voters who need to hear your message,” he advised.
Asantehene also underscored the importance of free and fair elections, calling for transparency to ensure peace after the polls. He reminded both candidates and voters to respect the outcome of the election, as leadership ultimately lies in the hands of God.
“God is the kingmaker. If it’s His will for you to win, you will win. But if it’s not, you won’t, no matter what. Exercise patience and let peace prevail,” Otumfuo advised.
The visit to the Palace was part of a formal introduction of Prof. Opoku-Agyemang as the NDC’s Vice Presidential Candidate for the 2024 elections.
The NDC delegation included prominent figures such as former Ashanti Regional Minister Dr. Samuel Sarpong, former Attorney General Betty Mould-Iddrisu, Campaign Head Alex Segbefia, and Ashanti Regional Chairman Nana Akwasi Andrews.
In her remarks, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang acknowledged her late visit and expressed gratitude to the Asantehene for his guidance and blessings in previous elections, seeking his continued support.
“When I was first chosen as running mate for the 2020 elections, I came here for your counsel and blessings. Today, I return once again to seek your guidance and blessings as I embark on this journey a second time,” she said.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
