Renowned Ghanaian journalist, Kwesi Pratt, has launched a scathing critique against Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, also known as NAPO, for comments suggesting that Ashantis who vote for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) are cursed. The seasoned journalist expressed his disapproval during a recent interview, emphasizing the dangerous rhetoric and its implications for Ghana' s democracy.
Kwesi Pratt condemned NAPO' s statement, saying, " This vice presidential candidate who actually went into the Ashanti Region and told the people that it' s a curse for any Ashanti to vote for any political party except the New Patriotic Party (NPP) should not be considered fit for the position of running mate, let alone Vice President of this country. " He argued that such divisive remarks undermine the principles of free choice and democracy.
Pratt' s remarks come after Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, a key figure in the NPP and the current Minister of Energy, reportedly made comments implying that Ashantis are bound by tradition to support the NPP and that any deviation, especially support for the opposition NDC, is tantamount to breaking a curse. These remarks have sparked widespread reactions, with critics calling them an attempt to manipulate voters based on ethnic loyalty.
Kwesi Pratt further questioned the criteria for political leadership in Ghana, highlighting the need for stringent standards when selecting individuals for high offices. He remarked, " This is the topic we should be addressing: what qualities should a person have to lead this country? So far, the system we have is one where individuals can self- declare their leadership ambitions. If you work hard and your bank account is full of money, you can call a press conference in the morning and declare yourself a presidential or vice- presidential candidate. "
He emphasized that while anyone is free to aspire to political office, the country needs to set higher standards to ensure that its leaders are chosen based on competence, integrity, and a commitment to the nation' s democratic values. Pratt' s comments have resonated with many Ghanaians who are growing increasingly concerned about the quality of political discourse in the country.