Napo Sparks Debate with Fiery Response to Journalist Over Ashanti Region Election Results.

Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, popularly known as Napo, and the 2024 vice-presidential candidate for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has become the center of public discourse following his fiery response to a question posed by a JoyNews journalist. The interaction, which focused on the Ashanti Region’s performance in the 2024 elections, has drawn mixed reactions from Ghanaians, sparking intense debates on social media.

During a press interaction, the journalist questioned Napo about perceptions that the Ashanti Region, a traditional stronghold of the NPP, did not deliver sufficient votes in the recent elections. The question appeared to strike a nerve, prompting Napo to respond sharply:

“I hope you never ask that question again. It might provoke someone to insult you. We lost 2.1 million votes in the just-ended elections. Can it be from the Ashanti Region only? When I hear somebody say that I feel really that I have to insult that person. ‘That Ashanti Region didn’t bring votes.’ Did Volta bring their votes?”

The bluntness of his comments has sparked a wave of reactions, with some questioning his diplomatic skills, while others applauded his passionate defense of the Ashanti Region.

Napo’s remarks have ignited diverse opinions across social media platforms. Critics argue that his tone was undiplomatic and could harm the NPP’s public image. Some expressed concerns about his ability to communicate effectively as the vice-presidential candidate.

• Oben commented, “Imagine having this man just one heartbeat away from the Presidency.”
• Oswel Cole remarked, “There’s nothing diplomatic about this one.”
• Black added, “This man needs PR training. It will be a different low if this man becomes Vice President.”

On the other hand, supporters of Napo believe his response reflects his frustration over what they see as unfair scrutiny of the Ashanti Region, which has consistently delivered strong results for the NPP in past elections.

• A user posted, “Ashanti Region has done more than enough for the NPP over the years. Napo is only defending the region.”
• Another added, “This man speaks his mind. We need more of that in politics.”

The incident has reignited conversations about the role of effective communication in politics. As the NPP’s vice-presidential candidate, every statement Napo makes is likely to be scrutinized, and many believe he must adopt a more measured approach to maintain public confidence in the party.

Political analysts have pointed out that while Napo’s passionate defense of the Ashanti Region may resonate with his core supporters, his tone could alienate undecided voters who value diplomacy and respect in leadership.

As the 2024 elections draw closer, Napo’s communication style will likely remain under public scrutiny. Whether he will address these concerns and adopt a more diplomatic approach or continue with his fiery rhetoric remains to be seen.

For now, the incident serves as a reminder of the importance of tone and tact in political discourse, especially when addressing sensitive issues that could shape public perceptions of a party and its candidates.