Former Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Joseph Osei Owusu
Former Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Joseph Osei Owusu, popularly known as Joe Wise, has disclosed that he turned down an offer to serve as a running mate ahead of the 2024 general elections.
According to Osei Owusu, who also served as the former Member of Parliament for the Bekwai Constituency, his decision was influenced by his desire to withdraw from public service.
He explained that he no longer has the interest to hold any public office.
He noted that although he was not medically fit at the time the offer was made a factor that contributed to his decision his position on public service has not changed.
He stressed that even if the offer were presented to him again today, he would still decline.
Speaking in an interview on Peace FM’s Kokrokoo morning show on January 26, 2026, the former MP, who currently chairs the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Presidential Elections Committee, stated, “I will not accept any public service of any kind anymore.
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“I have served enough, and that is okay, so I won’t accept any public service. I was offered a running mate position in the last election but I refused. I will not accept a running mate position. I am 64 years old; I have served the nation the best way I can,” he said.
Joe Wise further emphasised that his priority is not political appointments or titles but strengthening loyalty to the state, which he believes is gradually declining.
“What is important to me is that we continue to encourage loyalty to the state. It’s getting worse by the day. That is what we should focus on, not positions. Those are not the things that matter to me,” he added.
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