Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has firmly stated that he supports both the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP), emphasizing that his primary concern is the nation’s development.
He stressed that what Ghana needs most is progress and urged both parties to focus on clean campaigns.
The Asantehene called on political leaders to promote policies that would help the country achieve its developmental goals.
He said this when the NDC introduced its Vice-Presidential candidate, Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, to him in Kumasi on Friday.
Asantehene also questioned why the NDC failed to introduce Prof Opoku-Agyemang to him, though the party nominated her earlier before the New Patriotic Party (NPP) selected Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh.
But he urged Prof Opoku-Agyemang to support John Dramani Mahama in his bid to become President again, as was the expectation of most Ghanaians.
“When Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang was selected to support John Dramani Mahama, I heard of it, but I am surprised the party never bothered to introduce her to me since she was selected even before the NPP selected their Vice-Presidential candidate.
“I met her in Cape Coast during the Fetu Afahye and questioned why she had never been introduced to me, and she promised that it would be done. I am happy that they have done the right thing.”
“What we all want as Ghanaians is to have a leader who has the people of Ghana at heart. The people following you believe you will support John Dramani Mahama in becoming president again.”
“We are asking that you embark on a clean campaign and come out with good policies that will guide this country. The NPP has already selected Matthew Opoku Prempeh, and it’s true, that he is a son of Asanteman, but I want to say on authority that you are all my children, and I support all of you. What we want is development,” Otumfuo stated.
Prof. Opoku-Agyemang, on her part, urged the traditional ruler to bless her ahead of the elections.
“Not long ago, I was selected to support John Dramani Mahama, and I am ready to do just that. I am happy that you have accepted me and guided me. This is the second time John Dramani Mahama is contesting again, and I know I was supposed to come earlier to introduce myself, but I want to plead with you to forgive me for not doing that earlier.
“I am here to seek good guidance and advice from you, and I know you are a father for all and will not hesitate to caution me when I am going wrong,” she stated.
Source: Calvis Tetteh