The Presidential Running Mate to Dr Mahamudu Bawumia in the 2024 general elections, Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh, has stated that, uopn hindsight, he would not repeat certain remarks he made about Ghana’s first President, Dr Kwame Nkrumah, during his introduction to the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, at a durbar held in his honour.

Speaking on the GHOne Morning Show with Serwaa Amihere, Dr Opoku Prempeh explained that his comments were taken out of context within a highly charged political environment, making it easier for the public to accept negative interpretations without examining the surrounding circumstances.

According to him, it is common for people to form opinions based on limited information, often without seeking clarification.

The former Member of Parliament for Manhyia South noted that political opponents deliberately exploit such moments, carrying out what he described as a “SWOT analysis” to determine which negative labels would most readily resonate with the public. In his case, he said, branding him as arrogant was an allegation that gained traction in the prevailing political climate.

To illustrate his point, Dr Opoku Prempeh used an analogy, explaining that a presenter who wakes up as early as 3:00 am to prepare for a 7:30 am programme may have all their efforts overlooked if a single mishap occurs on air.

He argued that public attention often fixates on isolated moments while disregarding the broader context and effort behind them.

He further explained that in tense political environments, statements are frequently twisted to fit particular narratives, leaving individuals little opportunity to clarify their intentions.

Using a football analogy, he said that even a general statement made during a heated debate—such as addressing supporters of Accra Hearts of Oak—can be selectively reframed as disrespectful when taken out of context.

“In such a charged atmosphere, the number of people who will believe a distorted version of your words is far greater than those who will listen to your explanation,” he observed.

Dr Opoku Prempeh added that while negative allegations often excite public interest, they are frequently unsupported by evidence strong enough for the Attorney-General to pursue legal action.

He expressed concern that many people are quick to accept damaging labels without critically examining the facts.

Reflecting on the controversy, he said that with the benefit of hindsight, he would have taken greater care to clarify his remarks to avoid misinterpretation.

The remarks in question were made during a special durbar organised to formally introduce Dr Opoku Prempeh to the Asantehene after he was named as Dr Bawumia’s running mate.

While responding to Otumfuo’s counsel, he referenced Dr Kwame Nkrumah using the phrase “Mo Kwame no”, a comment that triggered public backlash and was widely perceived by sections of the public as disrespectful.

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