Flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, has for the first time publicly explained why he maintained Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia as his running mate for the 2012 elections.

According to Nana Akufo-Addo, the former Deputy Governor of the Bank of Ghana played a pivotal role in garnering more votes for the party in the run-up to the 2012 elections and indeed showed signs that he was a good material.

“Dr. Bawumia is a good partner”, he remarked.

He also stated that Dr. Bawumia was a fantastic partner following his ability to stand the rigorous campaigns and mounting several platforms and that was why he was retained to continue from where he left off after the 2008 election.

Nana Addo, who was responding to commendations by the chiefs and people of Kperiga in Walewale, Bawumia’s hometown, noted that their son had all the qualities a vice presidential candidate needed to win the 2012 elections.

He disclosed that the NPP’s quest for power was not for parochial interests but to reposition the country on a sound footing as desired by the forefathers of the nation who struggled for independence.

The chiefs thanked the flagbearer and the party’s national council for honouring them by re-appointing Dr. Bawumia as his running mate assuring them of their unflinching support.

“We were deceived but now we have seen the light in view of the honour done us by Nana Addo,” the chiefs remarked.

While assuring the NPP of their readiness to champion the crusade of winning all the four parliamentary seats in Mamprugu, the residents indicated that the dawn for rebirth of the NPP in Mamprugu had arrived.

On Nana Addo’s arrival at Walewale, activities came to a standstill, as a teeming crowd, clad in party paraphernalia, besieged the principal streets chanting songs in honour of Dr. Bawumia and the NPP.

Security personnel had a hectic time controlling the hundreds of party supporters who were unwilling to allow the flagbearer and his entourage to alight and interact with some opinion leaders.

More persons thronged the principal streets stretching some 10 kilometres just to see Nana Addo and his team.

The group later left for Nalerigu, the traditional capital of Mamprugu, and paid homage to the Nayiri, the overlord.

The visit was also aimed at soliciting his blessing for Dr. Bawumia, also a royal at Mamprugu.

Nalerigu gave the team a rousing welcome, bringing all activities to a halt. Speaking to the teeming supporters, Nana Akufo-Addo said, “With Mahamudu by my side, our vision of transforming our economy to provide free education and jobs for our youth will be possible”.

Dr. Bawumia said, “My nomination is for all of us. Whether Dagomba, Nanumba, Gonja, Konkomba, Kusasi or Mamprusi, it is for us all. What is important is that we support Nana to be president so that we can bridge the gap between the north and south and create opportunities for every Ghanaian,” he said.

Tamale will this morning host the team for the Islamic Prayers at the Jubilee Park where thousands of NPP supporters are expected to attend.

Alhaji Aliu Mahama, former vice president, Sheik I.C Quaye, Sheik T.B Damba, Fred Oware, Dr. Nyaho Tamakloe and Hajia Alima Mahama were part of the entourage.