Recent publications have distorted the insightful discussions from a meeting attended by Kennedy Ohene Agyapong and some professional groups aligned with the NPP party during our visit to the Ashanti Region last weekend. As a participant, I find it necessary to clarify the context and prevent misleading conclusions.
The meeting was an open dialogue focused on strategizing ways to strengthen the party and improve its future electoral prospects. As is typical in such discussions among party members, the conversation also touched on the factors that influenced the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) recent electoral performance. Kennedy Agyapong provided a frank assessment of the party’s 2024 electoral defeat, identifying five key issues including 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 emphasized that out of these challenges, two of them being religion and tribalism are deeply systemic and deeply rooted in the political landscape and therefore cannot change or be addressed in the immediate time.
In a display of leadership and honesty, 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 emphasized that he holds no personal animosity toward Dr Mahamudu Bawumia; rather, discussions focused on broader political realities surrounding his candidature relative to the 2024 general elections.
The role of religion in electoral outcomes was also highlighted, with Mr Agyapong citing Christian leaders who acknowledged its role in shaping voter behaviour. Let me also add this this is not unique to Ghana but Globally. History and contemporary examples across the world illustrate the complexities faced by individuals from minority religious groups aspiring to lead nations.
Recognizing these challenges is not about division but about fostering a deeper understanding of the electoral landscape. As the NPP works toward unity, it must strategically position a candidate who appeals to diverse demographics. Mr. Agyapong’s candid approach, far from being divisive, is a call for honest self-assessment and a united path forward.
Kennedy Agyapong, in the said meeting consistently, emerges not as a divisive figure, but as a leader committed to party unity built on a foundation of honest self-assessment 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 path forward that unites the party positions him as a valuable voice in navigating the NPP towards future success. Ken’s candid assessment, when understood in its complete context, is not a source of division, but a pathway towards a more informed and unified approach to future elections.
By: Kwasi Kwarteng
