Central Region NDC Condemns Attack on Prof. Naana Jane Opoku Agyemang

The Central Region branch of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) condemns the disparaging comments and reckless attacks directed towards the running mate of His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, Prof. Naana Jane Opoku Agyemang, by the Majority Leader of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Mr. Alexander Afenyo Markins.

On Monday, March 11, 2024, Hon. Afenyo Markins, instead of defending the abysmal records of his government’s State of the Nation address as presented by H.E. Nana Akuffo Addo, and with H.E. Dr. Bawumia in attendance, chose to engage in unwarranted personal attacks on the 2024 Running Mate of the NDC. Mr. Markins completely deviated from the debate by targeting Prof. Naana Jane Opoku Agyemang, whose name was not mentioned by the president in the State of the Nation address. According to Mr. Markins, Prof. Naana Jane is old and failed to deliver on her mandate as Minister for Education.

It is evident that the NDC’s choice of Prof. Naana Jane Opoku Agyeman as running mate, potentially the first female Vice President of Ghana, has left the NPP both agitated and bewildered.

Prof. Naana Jane Opoku Agyeman boasts an enviable and impeccable record as a public servant, having served as a teacher, an English literature lecturer, a Vice Chancellor, Chancellor, Minister for Education, and UNESCO Adviser, contributing significantly to the growth and development of the educational sector. During her tenure as Vice Chancellor, the University of Cape Coast saw an expansion in disciplines and faculties, approval from the National Accreditation Board for reopening departments, and the construction of various infrastructures. At the Ministry of Education, she championed government interventions for deprived students, including free school uniforms and sandals, improved student-to-textbook ratios, and initiatives specifically benefiting the girl child, such as free sanitary towels and support for young pregnant students.

The NDC recognizes the pivotal role of women in the nation’s progress and has implemented various gender-based initiatives, including legislative measures like affirmative action. However, despite comprising half of Ghana’s population, women have been largely excluded from crucial decision-making processes, hindering progress and democratic values. The nomination of Prof. Naana Jane Opoku Agyemang as running mate underscores the NDC’s commitment to inclusion, equality, and gender balance.

The Region condemns the unwarranted attacks on the 2024 Running Mate of the NDC and wishes to highlight the following:

– Despite numerous promises by the Nana Addo/Bawumia-led NPP, the Affirmative Action (Gender Equality) Bill remains unfulfilled.
– The NPP has failed to uphold affirmative action, evident in the lack of female representation in Dr. M. Bawumia’s 2024 campaign team.
– The NPP’s hypocritical stance on female appointments in government and lack of plans for female involvement in higher leadership roles are concerning.

As the MP for Efutu Constituency in the Central Region, we express deep disappointment in the comments made by the MP, considering that Prof. Naana Jane Opoku Agyemang hails from the Central Region. One would expect him to perceive this nomination as an honor, recognizing the region’s contribution to Ghana’s leadership. Prof. Naana Jane Opoku Agyemang has demonstrated unwavering commitment and dedication to serving all citizens of Ghana, particularly women and children.

“In the end, it’s not the years in your life that count; it’s the life in your years.” – Abraham Lincoln, 16th President of the United States. Prof. Naana Jane Opoku Agyeman has undeniably exemplified this sentiment and continues to aspire to serve Ghana with vigor and dedication.

Gabriella Tetteh
Central Regional Communications Officer
NDC