The Minister of Food and Agriculture, Brian Achiampong, has fervently called for an end to discussions suggesting that NPP flagbearer Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s running mate should be from the Ashanti region.
According to the politician, such concepts are “outdated” and stress the importance of moving away from regional biases in political debate.
“Who said that the vice-presidential candidate is in Ashanti Region?The vice-presidential candidate is in Ghana, and the vice-presidential candidate is within Dr. Bawumia’s right to choose the candidate for the nuclear power plant. Let’s stop talking about ‘I’m from there, I’m from there. Let’s use Ghana’s principles, respect the flag and what it stands for, and do better,”’ he said on Onua FM on April 29. Speaking to Nana Yaa Brefo and Isaac Eko JB on Yen Nsenpa.
Mr. Acheampong called for a paradigm shift in the approach to political leadership in Ghana, urging Ghanaians to look past regional prejudices and embrace a mindset centered on national unity and progress.
Mr Achiampong reiterated that Dr Bawumia’s selection was not based on his ethnic or regional background, but rather on his demonstrated ability and leadership qualities.
“Dr Bawumia was not chosen because he is from Mamprusi. He was chosen because of his ability and the next partner will be the person he chooses and that is the kind of conversation we should have. Acheampong said, stressing the need to focus on meritocracy rather than regionalism.
Achiampong denied the importance of ethnic considerations in the selection of leaders and emphasized the unity of Ghanaians, insisting that “we are all one people, we are all Ghanaians.”
He stressed the importance of selecting leaders based on their capabilities and commitment to national development, rather than regional origins.
Addressing speculation about his candidacy as vice-presidential candidate, Mr. Achiampong clarified that he had not been approached as such. Nevertheless, he declared that he would “support whoever Dr. Bawumia chooses.”