The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has strongly condemned recent verbal attacks on former President John Agyekum Kufuor by members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC). These developments have sparked outrage and demands for accountability within Ghana’s political circles.
The controversy began after a video featuring Dela Edem, a member of the NDC’s National Communications Team and an aide to former President John Mahama, went viral. In the video, Edem is heard making disparaging remarks about Kufuor, describing him in terms that many have deemed offensive and inappropriate. He is quoted as saying, “President Kufuor is evil, and that’s why he is in a wheelchair and has been cursed to remain in a wheelchair.”
The remarks have been met with widespread condemnation, with the NPP describing them as an unprovoked and unwarranted attack on a revered statesman. In a statement issued on November 16, the NPP’s National Organiser, Henry Nana Boakye, popularly known as Nana B, expressed the party’s dismay at the incident, calling the comments “despicable, shameful, and disgraceful.”
“These unprovoked attacks on the revered statesman and former president are despicable, shameful, and disgraceful. Accordingly, the NPP condemns them in no uncertain terms,” Nana Boakye stated.
The NPP’s leadership has also taken issue with the apparent silence of John Mahama, the NDC’s flagbearer, over the incident. They argue that as a leader, Mahama has a responsibility to publicly denounce the remarks and ensure that his aide is held accountable. The party has called on Mahama to demonstrate leadership by taking disciplinary action against Dela Edem and apologizing to Kufuor on behalf of his team.
The NPP’s statement reflects the party’s broader concerns about maintaining respect and decorum in Ghanaian politics. According to Nana B, such attacks not only tarnish the image of the individuals involved but also undermine the principles of mutual respect and civility that should characterize political discourse. He urged all political actors to engage in discussions and debates that focus on issues rather than personal attacks, especially against respected figures like former presidents.
The comments by Dela Edem have reignited a long-standing debate about the conduct of political communication in Ghana. Many observers have noted that personal attacks and inflammatory rhetoric have become too common in the country’s political landscape. The NPP’s response underscores the need for all parties to commit to upholding higher standards of communication and behavior.
Former President Kufuor, who led Ghana from 2001 to 2009, remains a respected figure both locally and internationally. His contributions to Ghana’s economic and political development have earned him widespread admiration. For many Ghanaians, the remarks made by Edem were not just an insult to Kufuor as an individual but also to the legacy he represents.
The NPP has called on the NDC to take immediate steps to address the issue. Beyond demanding an apology, the party insists that the NDC must send a clear message that such behavior will not be tolerated within its ranks. “We expect the NDC and its flagbearer, Mr. Mahama, to demonstrate leadership by condemning these remarks and taking the necessary disciplinary measures against Dela Edem,” the statement read.
The controversy has sparked mixed reactions among the Ghanaian public. While many have applauded the NPP for taking a firm stance on the matter, others have questioned whether the party is equally committed to addressing similar issues within its own ranks. This incident has highlighted the broader challenges of fostering a culture of respect and accountability in Ghanaian politics.
Meanwhile, supporters of former President Kufuor have expressed their solidarity with him, praising his dignity and composure in the face of such attacks. For them, the incident serves as a reminder of the need to protect the reputation of leaders who have dedicated their lives to serving the nation.
The NDC has yet to officially respond to the NPP’s statement. However, pressure is mounting on the party to take decisive action. Political analysts argue that how the NDC handles this issue could have implications for its image and credibility, particularly as the country approaches the next general elections.
The incident also raises questions about the responsibilities of political leaders to manage the conduct of their team members. As the flagbearer of the NDC, Mahama is seen as the figurehead of the party and, by extension, bears responsibility for the actions of those who work under him. Observers believe that his response to this controversy will be closely watched by both supporters and critics.
In conclusion, the verbal attacks on former President Kufuor by a member of the NDC have sparked widespread outrage and reignited discussions about the need for respect and civility in Ghanaian politics. The NPP has made its position clear, calling on the NDC to take immediate action and urging all political actors to uphold higher standards of conduct. As the public awaits a response from the NDC, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of fostering a political culture that prioritizes respect, accountability, and constructive engagement.
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