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The Chiefs and people of Nkroful have officially forgiven Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, the running mate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), following his controversial comments comparing the performance of President Akufo-Addo to that of Ghana’s first president, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah.
The comments, made during Dr. Opoku Prempeh’s unveiling in Kumasi on July 9, sparked widespread backlash, with many Ghanaians expressing strong objections to the comparison. The chiefs of Nkroful, Dr. Nkrumah’s hometown, were particularly vocal, demanding that the NPP running mate offer a personal apology before they could consider the matter resolved.
During a recent tour of Nzema land, Dr. Opoku Prempeh, also known as NAPO, visited Nkroful to extend his apologies directly to the traditional leaders. He emphasized his deep respect for Dr. Nkrumah, explaining that his comments were misconstrued and not intended to diminish the legacy of Ghana’s first president.
“I grew up among Nzema people; we are one. I hold Dr. Nkrumah in the highest regard, and I would never intentionally disrespect his memory. I apologize once more for any offense caused,” NAPO stated.
In response, the chief of Nkroful, Nana Kwasi Kutua, acknowledged the apology, expressing gratitude to Ghanaians for their vigilance in defending Nkrumah’s legacy. He noted that while the initial comments were indeed regrettable, the personal apology was a necessary step toward healing and unity.
“Today, Dr. Opoku Prempeh has come to us to seek forgiveness, and we accept his apology. We are a peaceful people, and we wish to maintain harmony in the nation,” Nana Kwasi Kutua affirmed.
With this reconciliation, tensions surrounding the remarks have eased, reinforcing the importance of respectful discourse and the enduring legacy of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah in Ghanaian history.
