Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang Criticizes Bawumia's 'Driver's Mate' Comment

Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, NDC's VP candidate, takes a swipe at Bawumia's 'driver's mate' comment, pledging to share successes and setbacks if elected. Highlights growing political tensions in Ghana's upcoming election.

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Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang Criticizes Bawumia's 'Driver's Mate' Comment

Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang Criticizes Bawumia's 'Driver's Mate' Comment

Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, the running mate for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer John Dramani Mahama, has taken a swipe at Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia over his recent 'driver's mate' comment. During her official introduction as the NDC's vice presidential candidate in Accra on Wednesday, Opoku-Agyemang assured that she would not declare to the world that she was only a 'driver's mate' in advancement of self-serving ambition, if she and Mahama were elected.

Bawumia had previously stated in February that as Vice-President, he was like a 'driver's mate', but if elected President, he would be in the 'driver's seat' with the constitutionally mandated authority to pursue his vision. In response, Opoku-Agyemang pledged her commitment to be involved in the collective successes and take responsibility for any setbacks. "I will share in our collective successes, and I will take responsibility for our setbacks. I will not be the one to call myself a mere, driver, mate at the time of reckoning," she stated emphatically.

The former Education Minister emphasized that the upcoming election is not only about bringing the NDC back to power but also an opportunity to heal the country, pull it back from the precipice of destruction, and work towards a Ghana where citizens have confidence, hope, and regain their independence of thought and agenda. She underscored the significance of the NDC winning the December 7 election, stating that it is an opportunity to restore hope in a manner that the party is capable of doing through their history and achievements.

Why this matters: The exchange between the two vice presidential candidates highlights the growing political tensions and the high stakes in the upcoming Ghanaian presidential election. The outcome of this election will have significant implications for the future direction and governance of the country.

Opoku-Agyemang's remarks were met with applause and nods from the audience gathered at the UPSA Auditorium in Accra. Her nomination as the NDC's running mate has been seen as a significant step in advancing women's representation in Ghanaian politics. Mahama, the NDC flagbearer, said that under his administration, Opoku-Agyemang will have oversight of key sectors like education, health, gender, and social protection.

Key Takeaways

  • Prof. Opoku-Agyemang criticizes Bawumia's 'driver's mate' comment in NDC introduction.
  • Opoku-Agyemang pledges to share successes and take responsibility, not call herself 'driver's mate'.
  • Opoku-Agyemang emphasizes NDC's goal to heal Ghana, restore hope, and confidence.
  • Opoku-Agyemang's nomination seen as advancing women's representation in Ghanaian politics.
  • Mahama says Opoku-Agyemang will oversee key sectors like education, health, gender, and social protection.