Former President John Agyekum Kufuor has firmly rejected calls to refrain from commenting on the 2024 general elections. These calls have intensified following his endorsement of Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential candidate. Critics, including Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen, flagbearer of the Movement for Change, have urged Kufuor to maintain neutrality as a statesman, arguing that his public endorsements could be seen as divisive.
Addressing a gathering at the Ofori Panin Palace on November 27, Kufuor boldly defended his position during a campaign event in the Abuakwa South constituency. Appearing alongside Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, the NPP’s vice-presidential candidate, the former president reaffirmed his confidence in Bawumia’s leadership capabilities. Kufuor called on Ghanaians to support the NPP in the upcoming elections, insisting that the party is best positioned to guide the nation through its challenges and toward prosperity.
Kufuor dismissed the notion that his statesmanship required him to remain silent on political matters. “I am facing criticism for voicing my opinions on national matters due to my position as a statesman,” he said. “Experience and wisdom are often associated with age, and I believe my insights remain relevant in this critical moment for our country.”
The former president emphasized his lifelong loyalty to the NPP, describing the party as the foundation of his political achievements. “The New Patriotic Party (NPP) is my political affiliation, and it was through this party that I attained the presidency. Additionally, my child, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has been elected through the party,” Kufuor stated.
Kufuor went on to recount Dr. Bawumia’s significant contributions during his tenure as president, highlighting his role as a key member of the Bank of Ghana team. “During my administration, he was a member of the Bank of Ghana team and demonstrated remarkable performance during a challenging period when Ghana was in financial distress. Their efforts were instrumental in revitalizing the economy at that time,” Kufuor noted.
The former president’s remarks have sparked heated debates across the political landscape. While many supporters view his endorsement as a testament to Bawumia’s capabilities and the NPP’s vision, critics argue that Kufuor’s open support undermines his role as a unifying figure. Nonetheless, Kufuor has remained resolute, insisting that his endorsement reflects his genuine belief in the NPP’s ability to secure a better future for Ghana.
The event at the Ofori Panin Palace served as a rallying point for the NPP, attracting party faithful and undecided voters alike. Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, affectionately known as “Napo,” also took the opportunity to address the crowd. He emphasized the NPP’s track record in governance and its commitment to delivering progress and stability for the nation. Prempeh echoed Kufuor’s sentiments, urging Ghanaians to trust the leadership of Dr. Bawumia and the NPP to steer the country toward greater economic and social development.
Kufuor’s endorsement comes at a time when the NPP is intensifying its campaign efforts to consolidate support across all regions of the country. The party’s leadership views the former president’s influence as a valuable asset in mobilizing the electorate. As one of Ghana’s most revered leaders, Kufuor’s endorsement of Bawumia could sway undecided voters and strengthen the NPP’s chances of securing victory in the 2024 elections.
However, not all reactions to Kufuor’s statements have been favorable. Some political analysts have expressed concern that his overt alignment with the NPP may alienate segments of the population that expect statesmen to remain above partisan politics. Critics argue that his comments could exacerbate divisions within the political sphere, particularly among NPP members who may hold differing views.
Despite these criticisms, Kufuor has made it clear that his allegiance to the NPP and his belief in Dr. Bawumia’s leadership remain unwavering. He urged Ghanaians to critically evaluate the track records and plans of all candidates in the upcoming elections, emphasizing that the NPP’s policies and vision align with the nation’s long-term interests.
The former president’s call for unity and collective action resonated strongly with the audience at the Ofori Panin Palace. Supporters responded with chants of affirmation, expressing their gratitude for his continued engagement in national affairs. For many, Kufuor’s presence at the event symbolized the enduring legacy of the NPP’s contributions to Ghana’s development and the promise of a brighter future under Bawumia’s leadership.
As the 2024 elections approach, Kufuor’s endorsement is expected to remain a key talking point in political discussions across the nation. His decision to actively support the NPP underscores the high stakes of the upcoming elections and the importance of experienced voices in shaping the country’s political direction.
By standing his ground, Kufuor has reaffirmed his unwavering loyalty to the NPP and his belief in Dr. Bawumia’s ability to lead Ghana into a brighter future. In his message to Ghanaians, he emphasized that the 2024 elections represent a pivotal moment for the nation and called on the electorate to place their trust in the NPP to deliver progress, stability, and prosperity for all.
