Kennedy Agyapong, former NPP flagbearer aspirant, argues that poor electoral performance shouldn’t be rewarded with another leadership opportunity, citing the party’s tradition of valuing competence and results over sentiment.
During an address to party supporters in Mampong on June 7, 2025, while paying respects to the late Mamponghene, Daasebre Osei Bonsu, Mr. Agyapong underscored the NPP’s tradition of recognising competence and results, rather than sentiment.
The former Assin Central MP used the occasion to assess the party’s current state and warn against disregarding performance in leadership selection decisions.
His comments follow internal discussions regarding the party’s future and the implications of its recent electoral performance under Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the party’s 2024 flagbearer.
Mr. Agyapong cautioned, ‘Let no one be misled; our party has a history of rewarding strong candidates. If you lead us into an election and perform poorly, you should not anticipate another opportunity.’
He disputed the notion that the NPP typically affords its presidential candidates multiple chances, stating this only occurs when the candidate’s initial attempt shows considerable promise.
Citing the example of Prof. Adu Boahen in 1992, Mr. Agyapong noted that despite being a hero of the democratic struggle, the party did not grant him another chance following his loss, due to the importance of performance.
He drew comparisons with former President John Agyekum Kufuor and current President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, both of whom were permitted to contest again after demonstrating electoral strength in their initial bids.
Mr. Agyapong steessed, ‘The facts are evident. If someone leads us to one of our worst electoral outcomes, we cannot ignore that. This is a serious political party; we do not award leadership as a consolation.’
By: Rainbowtadioonline.com/Ghana
