Former New Patriotic Party (NPP) running mate, Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh, has called on Ghanaians to rise above partisan politics and recognise the contribution of Ghana’s first President, Dr Kwame Nkrumah.

He made the call at the 2026 Nkrumahfest in Nkroful in the Western Region, where the country marked the 117th birthday of the late President, with the celebration held under the theme, “Nkrumah @117: Celebrating His Enduring Legacy – Africa Must Unite or Perish.”

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Dr Opoku Prempeh said that although Ghanaians may have different views on governance and economic policies, such differences should not affect the respect given to people whose contributions have shaped the country.

He said Dr Nkrumah’s impact goes beyond political party lines and should be recognised by all Ghanaians.

“The monumental legacy of Osagyefo Dr Kwame Nkrumah undoubtedly transcends generations. We may disagree and will continue to disagree on the mechanics of governance, on economic policy and on the pace and shape of development,” he said.

He noted that political disagreements were part of democracy but said some national figures deserved recognition beyond partisan politics.

“That is the nature of democracy, and Ghana is stronger for it, but there must be a category of figures who sit above the trenches of partisan politics. Men and women whose contributions to our nation would be so foundational that is an exemplar for we who follow,” he stated.

Dr Opoku Prempeh described Nkrumah as a major figure in Ghana’s nation-building and Africa’s liberation struggle.

“His monumental footprints span generations. Nkroful gave Ghana a son, but Africa and the world gave a generational figure. A liberation icon and an architect of Ghana's nation-building,” he said.

He also urged Ghanaians to recognise Nkrumah’s role in putting Ghana on the global map and promoting Pan-Africanism.

“All Ghanaians must fully recognize, respect, and hold in high esteem the monumental role Dr Kwame Nkrumah played in putting Ghana firmly on the global map. Nkrumah's vision was expansive, visionary and fiercely Pan-African,” he urged.

According to him, celebrating Nkrumah in his hometown should be seen as a national responsibility rather than a partisan activity.

“Therefore, celebrating him in this magnificent, effective manner in his home district is a duty incumbent upon all of us regardless,” he added.

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He called for a renewed commitment to national unity, patriotism and development as Ghanaians reflect on Nkrumah’s legacy.

“True patriotism demands that we rise above partisan narrowness to honor those who laid the bedrock upon which our present democracy and national identity rest,” Dr Opoku Prempeh stated.

Former NPP Running Mate, Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh, has called on Ghanaians to rise above partisan politics and respect the legacy of Ghana’s first President, Dr Kwame Nkrumah.

Speaking at the 2026 Nkrumahfest in Nkroful, he said Nkrumah’s contribution to Ghana and Africa should… pic.twitter.com/4iHwhALHjW

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