Malik Basintale, the Deputy National Communications Director of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has fired back at Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, also known as Napo, the running mate for the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP). This comes after Napo's recent visit to Yaa-Naa Bukali Mahama II, the Overlord of Dagbon, in Yendi, where he made some pretty controversial statements.

Napo claimed that voting for the NDC is "haram" - or forbidden in Islam - for Muslims, and that it would be inappropriate for an Imam to offer prayers for the reinstatement of former President John Mahama. Basintale wasn't having it, saying Napo has no right to decide what's a sin or who the people of Dagbon should support in the upcoming elections. He emphasized that political choices are personal and shouldn't be tied to religious doctrine.

Basintale also threw some shade, suggesting that even Yaa-Naa would vote for John Mahama, given the NDC's strong support in the region. He highlighted the NDC's achievements in the area, like building the Tamale Teaching Hospital and asphalting the Eastern Corridor Road. "What he does not know is that Yaa Naa is aware that it is the NDC that built the Tamale Teaching Hospital... So he will vote for Mahama and the NDC," Basintale said.

It's worth noting that Basintale has been in the news before for his comments about the NPP and its leaders. There was even a rumored police arrest that sparked outrage among NDC youth . But it seems Basintale isn't backing down, and the NDC is standing firm against Napo's assertions.