Office says group was never authorised — urges NPP to disregard statement and respect divergent opinions
The Office of Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum has dissociated itself from a group operating under the name *“Friends of Osei Adutwum”* and a statement issued by the group questioning broadcast journalist and media commentator, *Okatakyie Afrifa Mensah*, for expressing support for another individual as the New Patriotic Party’s preferred running mate.
In an official disclaimer, the Office said it has taken notice of the group and its statement, and for the avoidance of doubt, categorically dissociates itself from both the group and its statement.
“The Office has neither authorised nor mandated any group or individual to issue statements, launch attacks, or engage in public commentary on its behalf regarding the running mate debate.”
Disregard The Statement
The Office urged the rank and file of the New Patriotic Party, sympathisers, and the general public to disregard the said statement.
“Dr. Adutwum’s political ambition must not be used to intimidate, attack, or silence individuals who hold different opinions within our democratic tradition.”
Running Mate Is Flagbearer’s Prerogative
The statement stressed that the choice of a running mate is the constitutional and political prerogative of the party’s flagbearer.
That responsibility, it said, must be exercised independently, without intimidation, unnecessary pressure, factional manoeuvring, or attempts by self-appointed groups to dictate the direction of the party.
Call For Unity
At this crucial moment, the Office said the collective responsibility must be to protect party unity, deepen internal democracy, respect divergent opinions, and build the broadest possible front for victory in the 2028 general elections.
“Ideas, competence, leadership of service, devoid of needless personal attacks or manufactured divisions define Dr. Adutwum’s political journey.”
It added:
“The NPP is bigger than any individual or interest group. Our ultimate objective must remain victory in 2028.”
