Mr. Ayariga settled on the 64-year-old chartered accountant and a Christian, after what he termed broad consultation with the party hierarchy and the grassroots.

The decision is in compliance with Article 60 (2) of the 1992 constitution which states that: “A candidate for the office of Vice-President shall be designated by the candidate for the office of President before the election of President.”

Outdooring Mr. Bartels, at the APC’s headquarters in Accra on Saturday, Mr. Ayariga said his second-in-command has what it takes to assist him run an efficient government.

He said his partnership with, Mr. Bartels, a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants, Ghana, offers the dynamism needed in addressing the governance and development challenges of the country.

Mr. Ayariga, 44, said it was time Ghanaians brushed aside the governing National Democratic Congress and the New Patriotic Party and opt for the APC ticket which represents the change the country yearned for.

He said the two dominant parties were too poralised to unite Ghanaians for needed growth after their long stay in office.

Mr. Ayariga reiterated his resolve to form an all inclusive government where he would tap into all the political parties for needed experiences to enhance the governance system.

In his acceptance remarks, Mr. Bartels, an indegene of Elmina, assured of his commitment to a vigorous campaign to deliver victory in the December 7 poll.

He called on the rank and file of the party to rally behind the presidential ticket for a resounding victory.

Mr. Bartels is married to Roselyn Bartels with seven children.

He is also a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants, Nigeria, and has practised accountancy in that country for 17 years.

By Julius Yao Petetsi