Professor Samuel Adu-Gyamfi, a political historian at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), has urged the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to take a deeper look at the recent remarks made by Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, a presidential aspirant for the 2024 elections as reported by Ghana Web.
Adu-Gyamfi clarified that Agyapong’s comments were not meant to divide the party but to encourage reflection for a stronger future, particularly in the 2028 elections.
In an interview on Bohobio Live on Hello 101.5 FM, the historian stated that Agyapong’s call for fairness and strategic thinking in the NPP’s candidate selection should be viewed as a “genuine plea” to safeguard the party’s future.
“Ken did not insult anyone or cast aspersions. His comments were deeply rooted in historical reasoning,” Adu-Gyamfi stated.
Drawing from history, Adu-Gyamfi pointed to the NPP’s past decisions, such as the party’s choice not to re-nominate Professor Albert Adu-Boahen after his 1992 loss, despite his pivotal role in Ghana’s return to multiparty democracy.
“The NPP made a pragmatic choice,” he said, stressing the need for a strategic approach to leadership, especially after setbacks.
The professor also referenced the NPP’s internal democracy, citing John Agyekum Kufuor’s second presidential bid in 2000 as an example of the party’s ability to learn from past mistakes.
He warned that the party must select a candidate who can unite and appeal to all regions in 2028, emphasizing the importance of “credibility, influence, and a clear vision” for the party’s future.