Recent publications have misrepresented the insightful discussions held during a meeting attended by Hon. Kennedy Ohene Agyapong and several professional groups affiliated with the NPP party during our visit to the Ashanti Region last weekend.
As a participant in the meeting, I find it important to clarify the context and prevent any misleading conclusions.
The meeting was an open dialogue focused on strategising ways to strengthen the party and improve its future electoral prospects.
As is typical in such discussions among party members, the conversation also touched upon the factors that influenced the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) recent electoral performance.
Hon. Kennedy Agyapong offered a candid assessment of the party’s defeat in the 2024 elections, identifying five key issues: the state of the economy, the influence of religion, tribal dynamics, the impact of internal presidential primaries, and the neglect of the party’s grassroots base.
He emphasised that two of these challenges – religion and tribalism – are deeply systemic and ingrained in the political landscape, and therefore cannot be addressed in the short term.
In a display of leadership and honesty, Hon. Kennedy Agyapong even acknowledged that some of his remarks during the internal primaries might have unintentionally contributed to the party’s challenges – a point he had already raised before the Professor Oquaye Committee when he appeared before them.
However, he stressed that he bears no personal animosity towards Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia; instead, the discussions centred around the broader political realities surrounding his candidacy in relation to the 2024 general elections.
The role of religion in electoral outcomes was also highlighted, with Mr Agyapong citing Christian leaders who acknowledged its influence in shaping voter behaviour.
It is worth noting that this is not unique to Ghana but a global phenomenon. History and contemporary examples worldwide illustrate the complexities faced by individuals from minority religious groups aspiring to lead nations.
Acknowledging these challenges is not about fostering division, but about encouraging a deeper understanding of the electoral landscape.
As the NPP works towards unity, it must strategically position a candidate who can appeal to diverse demographics. Mr. Agyapong’s candid approach, far from being divisive, is a call for honest self-assessment and a united path forward.
In the meeting, Kennedy Agyapong consistently emerged not as a divisive figure, but as a leader committed to party unity, grounded in honest self-reflection and a pragmatic understanding of the realities and opportunities ahead.
His willingness to openly discuss potentially sensitive issues, take responsibility for past missteps, and seek a way forward that unites the party positions him as a valuable voice in steering the NPP towards future success.
Ken’s candid assessment, when understood in its proper context, is not a source of division but a pathway to a more informed and unified approach to the forthcoming elections.
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